Grapes and olives are iconic European crops and a play a significant role in Mediterranean countries' economies. For years, chemical pesticides were used to protect the plants from invasive species and disease. But as an abundance of evidence shows that spraying with synthetic compounds has adverse impacts on people, farm animals, wildlife, pollinators, land and water, farmers need new solutions to control plant pests. We speak to researchers looking into the potential of biopesticides as a smart way to protect crops without compromising human health and the environment.
Antimicrobial resistance is another challenge European farmers face. The over-prescription of antimicrobial medications such as antibiotics and antifungals is largely responsible for the evolution of drug-resistant superbugs that are a threat to animals, humans and the environment. Now EU-backed researchers are exploring how improving animal welfare can help beat the problem.
This week marked the end of our monthly focus series on citizen science. We went back to what is seen as the origins of citizen science: bird watching. Birdwatching has historically drawn members of the public to participate in scientific studies. Today, researchers are interested in understanding how such citizen science activities can help people live more in sync with nature. | 
