On the last 16th of September 2023, the Brussels Museum of Natural Sciences came alive with the fascinating world of microbiology as it hosted an event in celebration of International Microorganism Day. Organized by the EU-funded project CIRCLES, in collaboration with the Young Belgian Society for Microbiology, this event offered an enlightening and engaging experience for people of all ages who were curious about the hidden world of microbes.
This event was part of CIRCLES’ citizen engagement tour, which had previously made stops in Bologna, Helsinki, and Rimini. The fourth stop in Brussels was met with enthusiasm and curiosity from attendees. It underscored the importance of bridging the gap between scientific research and the general public, emphasizing the critical role of microbiomes in our food system and our daily lives.
One of the highlights of the event was the opportunity for attendees to participate in interactive activities that brought the microbial world to life. Visitors could embark on a journey of discovery by making their very own kombucha, a fermented tea filled with beneficial microbes. This hands-on experience not only taught the science behind fermentation but also allowed participants to taste the delicious results.
Another creative activity involved crafting living organism art pieces. Participants channelled their inner artists to create unique microbial-inspired artworks. It was a fantastic way to showcase the beauty and diversity of microorganisms while encouraging artistic expression.
CIRCLES didn’t stop there. They distributed test kits, enabling them to collect and sample microbes from their own homes.
This interactive approach allowed individuals to gain a deeper understanding of the invisible life that surrounds them every day, right in the comfort of their own living spaces.
If you are curious about the results check here:
