Seed conservation network encourages science-society dialogue
The network set up to upgrade the conservation of seeds native to Europe has opened its website to the public with the claim that it represents 'a window to the world of plant seed conservation in Europe'. The project, known as ENSCONET (European native seed conservation network) is funded under the Sixth Framework Programme's 'research infrastructures' thematic area. It is intended to strengthen conservation efforts by improving the quality, coordination and integration of current practice, policy and research. The website contains an open space where members of the scientific community and non-experts are able to interact. Users are invited to express opinions, raise doubts and enter into a dialogue with other users. The ENSCONET project was in the news in 2005 when collaboration led to the recovery of Bromus bromoideus, a Belgian endemic plant species that was believed to have disappeared around 70 years ago.