Fascination of Plants Day - 18th May 2013

18 May 2013 - Today the second international "Fascination of Plants Day" is launched under the umbrella of the European Plant Science Organisation (EPSO).

The event aims to get as many people as possible around the world fascinated by plants and enthused about the importance of plant science for agriculture, in sustainably producing food, as well as for horticulture, forestry, and all of the non-food products such as paper, timber, chemicals, energy, and pharmaceuticals.

As part of the celebrations, plant science institutions, universities, botanical gardens, and museums, together with farmers and companies, will be opening their doors to the public. A variety of plant-based events for all ages are planned.

The media are invited to join in, and scientists, farmers, politicians and industrialists will discuss with them and present the latest state-of-the-art research and breakthroughs in the plant science world and explore all of the new potential applications plant science can offer.

The Fascination of Plants Day will be backed up by a range of events in public spaces, theatres, cafes, central city squares and parks designed to get everyone thinking about plants. The role of plants in environmental conservation is also a key message.