Researchers at Karlstad University have launched a new project, Learning and Living with Insects, which aims not only to increase understanding of our insects but also to equip society with the tools to protect biodiversity. Through innovative collaboration with various stakeholders in society, the project takes a significant step towards preserving our planet's diversity of life.
“Our mission in the Learning and Living with Insects project is to make learning about insects fun and engaging while also taking action to protect biodiversity. We've teamed up with schools, education organizations, universities, municipalities, and housing agencies to make a real difference” says Peter Lampert, leader of the project.
This project received funding from Formas (4 Million SEK) in the call “From research to implementation for a sustainable future 2023”. The project shall contribute to support biodiversity in Karlstad municipality and to spread innovative teaching materials on this issue on a national level.
A first goal of the project is to spread word about biodiversity conservation in schools by partnering with Naturskolan Karlstad and the national eco-school network Grön Flagg. “Through exciting science-based programs, we're reaching students on a large scale to teach them about the importance of preserving our planet's biodiversity” says Peter Lampert.
As a second goal, the project takes the issue of actions for biodiversity into higher education. For this, the project incorporates action-based learning into courses for biology students and teacher students at Karlstad University. Peter Lampert highlights the importance of involving the students at university in the project “By equipping students with the skills and knowledge to take meaningful action, we're cultivating a new generation of environmental leaders.”
As a final goal, the project wants to create more spaces for biodiversity in Karlstads Kommun. Supporting biodiversity in municipalities is a challenge, because many different actors are involved. Therefore, the Learning and living with Insects project develops effective educational strategies in collaboration with Karlstads Kommun and KBAB, a public housing agency. “Together, we are paving the way for sustainable practices that benefit both people and nature.”
Throughout the project, the research team (Peter Lampert, Daniel Olsson, Teresa Berglund, Niklas Gericke, John Piccolo, Anna Mogren) will be conducting research and evaluating their efforts. The project will last until December 2025 and will hopefully lead to many biodiverse greenspaces in Karlstad and reach many schools in Sweden!
Tips: On Sunday 10:30, Peter will give an inspiration lecture on how to support biodiversity in gardens at KarlstadCCC during the “Sköna Gröna Trädgard” fair (https://skonagronatradgard.nu/).
You can find more information on how you can support biodiversity on Peters webpage www.actionsforinsects.com.
