From Platform to Planter: Schweiz forscht Embraces Citizen Science with INCREASE

The Swiss citizen science platform Schweiz forscht has taken a hands-on approach to research by joining the Europe-wide INCREASE Citizen Science Experiment. As part of the initiative, rare bean varieties are now flourishing on the rooftop terrace of the Schweiz forscht office and their growth is being carefully tracked by staff via the dedicated INCREASE app.

INCREASE (Intelligent Collections of Food Legumes Genetic Resources for European Agrofood Systems) aims to engage citizens in the scientific study and conservation of rare and traditional Phaseolus vulgaris (common bean) varieties. Through participation, Schweiz forscht is contributing to important work in biodiversity preservation and agrobiodiversity research.

The initiative received valuable support from the Biodiversity Forum of the Swiss Academies of Arts and Sciences, providing both gardening expertise and essential infrastructure, most notably, an automatic irrigation system that has been a lifeline during the hot June weather.

The experiment has also yielded early insights: not all bean varieties respond equally to heat stress. One standout is Phaseolus vulgaris L. subsp. vulgaris var. nanus Asch., commonly known as tabacchigni rossi. This climbing Italian variety is showing strong resilience and healthy growth on the rooftop.

As the beans continue to grow, so does the community’s contribution to science. This experiment is one more way Schweiz forscht helps bring science closer to the people, and the people closer to science.

The INCREASE team is delighted that Schweiz forscht is taking part in our ambitious bean experiment - a big thank you for sharing your experiences and contributing to research into plant diversity and sustainable agriculture!