Series of educational workshops for pupils (Końskowola)

From 9 to 18 September 2026, a series of educational workshops entitled “Are You Safe in the Environment? The Threat Posed by Sosnowsky’s Hogweed” was held. The workshops were organised as part of the ZeroHeracleum project and the Interreg NEXT Poland–Ukraine 2021–2027 Programme, co-funded by the European Union.

The event was attended by pupils from five schools located in the Lublin Voivodeship:

1. Class 3h from Primary School No. 50 in Lublin – 9 September,
2. Class 6c from Primary School No. 14 at School Complex No. 12 in Lublin – 10 September,
3. Class 7 from the Primary School in Pożóg Stary – 16 September,
4. Class 6b from the Primary School in Końskowola – 17 September,
5. Classes 5 and 6 from the Primary School in Chrząchów – 18 September.

The workshops consisted of two parts: theoretical and practical.

During the theoretical sessions, which were held at the participating schools, pupils learned what biodiversity is, what invasive species are, and why Sosnowsky’s hogweed poses a threat to both people and the environment. They also learned about the history of the species, including the origin of its name and the reasons why the plant was introduced to Poland. The pupils showed great interest in the subject and actively participated in discussions and exercises.

Following the theoretical part, the pupils took part in field activities in Końskowola. In accordance with appropriate safety procedures, they were able to observe Sosnowsky’s hogweed in its natural environment and put their newly acquired knowledge into practice. Participants learned how to identify the species, how to behave safely in the vicinity of the plant, how to report its locations using the BarszczAlert application (Facebook profile), as well as practical methods of controlling and eradicating Sosnowsky’s hogweed.

The pupils also received educational materials and project-related souvenirs, including drawstring bags and booklets.

The workshop programme also included time for refreshments and a joint lunch at “Gospoda pod Różą” in Końskowola.

For pupils from outside the Końskowola municipality, participation in the workshops was also an opportunity to learn more about the town and its history. Participants were introduced to key facts about Końskowola’s more than 600-year history, its monuments and local traditions, including rose cultivation, plant nursery production, fruit trees, and ornamental plants.

The workshops provided an opportunity not only to gain knowledge about Sosnowsky’s hogweed and the threats associated with its occurrence, but also to raise environmental awareness and promote responsible behaviour in the natural environment.