Why participatory plant research now?

Area of Science:

• Plant science and agronomy are vital for sustainable biomass utilization in the current polycrisis.
• Focuses on the intersection of plant biology, quantitative methods, and societal needs.

Background:

• The polycrisis necessitates sustainable solutions, highlighting the importance of plant biomass.
• Traditional top-down research models face challenges in addressing complex societal issues.
• Growing polarization between science and society requires new research frameworks.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce participatory plant research as a framework for addressing societal challenges.
• To explore the integration of quantitative approaches with situated knowledge in plant science.
• To highlight plant breeding as a case study for this new research paradigm.

Main Methods:

• Describes participatory plant research as a collaborative approach between researchers and citizens.
• Emphasizes building on biological complexity and situated knowledge.
• Illustrates the concept using plant breeding as a key example.

Main Results:

• Participatory research fosters fertile ground for complex quantitative questions.
• Societal issues are addressed more effectively at their roots.
• Outcomes often surpass those of traditional top-down research strategies.

Conclusions:

• Participatory plant research offers a viable alternative to conventional methods.
• This approach enhances the relevance and impact of plant science in society.
• The integration of diverse knowledge systems leads to more robust solutions.