Through workshops, experiments, and participatory activities, the institute shared with the public some of the scientific challenges related to water quality, reuse, and sustainable management. Attendees had the opportunity to become scientists for a day, discovering aquatic biodiversity with microscopes, learning about the role of electroactive microorganisms in wastewater treatment, and the function of membranes in water purification. The workshop 'The Mystery of Aquatic DNA' was also conducted to extract DNA from microorganisms.
Participants acted as environmental detectives, searching for pollutants using chromatography techniques, identifying microplastics in marine water samples, and analyzing water and soil quality for food production. They reflected on sustainable water resource management through interactive games and experiments.
Younger attendees enjoyed the 'Water Scavenger Hunt,' completing challenges in various workshops and receiving a 'I am a scientist!' diploma upon completion. In parallel, IMDEA Agua collaborated at the Residencia de Estudiantes in a joint panel discussion with seven other IMDEA institutes and Bomberos de la Comunidad de Madrid titled 'Science Facing Natural Disasters,' highlighting how research helps prevent risks.
The European Researchers' Night is a scientific outreach project celebrated in hundreds of European cities. IMDEA Agua has participated since 2010, reinforcing its commitment to promoting research vocations.
