Plant Climate Lab at IPSAM 2026
Members of the Plant Climate Lab were delighted to participate in the Irish Plant Scientists’ Association Meeting (IPSAM) 2026, held at the National Botanic Gardens, Glasnevin, on 15–16 June. The meeting brought together plant scientists from across Ireland to share the latest research in ecology, climate change, biodiversity, conservation, plant physiology, and horticulture.
A particular highlight of the conference was the keynote lecture by Dr Peter Wyse Jackson, President Emeritus of the Missouri Botanical Garden and Chair of the Botanic Gardens Conservation International (BGCI) Board. In his inspiring talk, “Botanic gardens in a changing world – driven by concern for biodiversity and conservation”, he explored the history, importance, and future role of botanic gardens in addressing biodiversity loss and global environmental change.
The Plant Climate Lab was strongly represented across both oral and poster presentations.
Robin Noble presented his talk: “Does plant evolution speed up weathering? A mesocosm experiment comparing ferns and angiosperms”
This research explored how different plant groups influence silicate weathering and atmospheric carbon sequestration, challenging long-held assumptions about the role of plant evolution in Earth’s carbon cycle.
Leticia Figueiredo Candido delivered a talk entitled: “The Witness Trees: unveiling the potential of Botanic Gardens for research”
The presentation highlighted the Witness Tree Project, a long-term monitoring initiative investigating how trees respond to environmental change and air pollution, while demonstrating the value of botanic gardens as living laboratories for scientific research.
Kamila Kwasniewska presented a poster: “Botanic Gardens as Spaces for Reconnection – Forest Bathing and Student Wellbeing in the City”
The poster showcased findings from a three-year collaboration between Trinity College Botanic Gardens and Student Counselling Services, exploring the impact of forest bathing and nature-based interventions on student wellbeing in an urban green space.
Muhammad Siddiq presented a poster entitled: “PlantChem Project: Investigating the Shift in Plant Chemistry Due to Climate Change”
The research compared historic (1989–1991) and modern (2013–2015) plant collections from 24 sites across seven global biomes to investigate how rising atmospheric CO₂ has altered plant elemental composition. The study revealed substantial shifts in plant chemistry over just a few decades, highlighting previously hidden impacts of climate change on ecosystem function and nutrient cycling.
Beyond the scientific programme, the conference provided wonderful opportunities to reconnect with colleagues, discover new research, and explore the National Botanic Gardens. Delegates enjoyed guided tours of the gardens and herbarium, and one of the highlights was the opportunity to visit the rooftop of the iconic Great Palm House, offering a unique perspective over one of Ireland’s most treasured botanical collections.
IPSAM 2026 was an inspiring and enjoyable event, showcasing the breadth of plant science research taking place across Ireland. We would like to thank the organisers and the National Botanic Gardens for hosting such a fantastic meeting and look forward to returning next year.
