CESAM celebrates 25 years of scientific research with the launch of a new scientific literacy series aimed at children, young people, and families. The initiative results from a partnership with the Estrelas & Ouriços platform and includes features in the children’s section Expressinho, published in the magazine distributed with the weekly newspaper Expresso. Its goal is to bring science closer to everyday life, promoting greater environmental awareness from an early age.
Over the coming months, content will be published addressing current and critical topics for the future of the planet, translating scientific knowledge into accessible information and practical activities. These materials are based on scientific articles published by CESAM members in international scientific journals. Featured topics include climate change, the circular economy, agriculture, soils, pollution, biodiversity, and the bioeconomy—core areas of research developed at CESAM.
This collaboration aligns with the mission of the research centre to produce scientific knowledge of excellence and transfer it to society, contributing to more informed and sustainable decision-making. Through clear language adapted to younger audiences, CESAM researchers explain complex scientific concepts, such as carbon footprint and embodied carbon in buildings, demonstrating how everyday choices have environmental impacts.
Each article also includes five practical activities designed to be carried out either in school settings or at home with families, encouraging active learning and critical thinking. The aim is to stimulate scientific curiosity and promote solid environmental education, empowering new generations to understand global challenges and participate in building solutions.
For CESAM, this initiative also represents a symbolic way of celebrating 25 years of scientific achievements, reinforcing its commitment to scientific literacy and to fostering more aware and informed citizens. By establishing this partnership with Estrelas & Ouriços, the centre expands the reach of its research, bringing science beyond academia and making it part of family life.
In a context marked by complex and interconnected environmental challenges, investing in education and science communication is essential to promote a more resilient and sustainable society. With this new series, CESAM reaffirms its role as an active agent in the creation of knowledge and its dissemination within the community.
The full translation of the original article is available on our website and can be consulted here.