International Microorganism Day is approaching! On the 17th of September we are celebrating everything that has to do with microbes, such as bacteria, fungi and other tiny organisms! Microorganisms are everywhere around us, and they are responsible for numerous processes that happen in our daily lives. Despite their bad reputation for spoiling food and making us sick, microbes can actually be beneficial for our bodies, our food, medicines and our environment. For instance, the bacterium Alcanivorax borkumensis is able to clean detrimental oil spills in the ocean, and therefore protect our marine environment!
The different roles microbes can have in our everyday lives are a topic of extensive research, with scientists worldwide investigating the fascinating world of microorganisms, their interactions, behaviours and the ways that they co-live with us. International Microorganism Day, which was established in 2017, aims to raise awareness for people of all ages on microorganisms, as well as recognize and celebrate their diversity and their essential roles in our lives.
Want to learn more about these amazing microbes? Throughout the day, the Federation of European Microbiology Societies (FEMS) is organizing multiple events to get involved and raise awareness, such as this year’s exclusive “24 hours of microbiology” webinar featuring talks and discussions with microbiology experts and guests. This is the perfect opportunity to learn more about microbiology and microorganisms, do not miss out!
You can find more information here or on social media via the hashtags #InternationalMicroorganismDay, #WhyMicroMatters, and #MicrobiologyIsEverywhere.
