Students at Beaulieu Convent School in Jersey are conducting experiments to determine if legumes such as chickpeas, lentils and lablab beans can be successfully grown across the British Isles. The goal of this project is to gather information on food security issues in the face of climate change, particularly the impact on traditional British crops like wheat and maize.
Dr. Mark Chapman, leading the project, emphasized the need to consider alternative crops as temperatures rise. Legumes like chickpeas and lentils, which are typically grown in warmer regions, could potentially thrive in the British Isles. Students are enthusiastic about the possibility of utilizing beans as a sustainable food source in the future, particularly the lablab bean for its drought-resilient qualities.
Home economics students have also been involved in taste-testing bean-based foods. Amber and Lisa, both 13 years old, enjoyed the bean-brownie dish the most. Jon Hale, head of biology at the school, expressed excitement at the students’ engagement in cutting-edge scientific research, noting how it fosters a sense of identity as scientists and inspires a desire to learn more.
This hands-on experiment not only provides valuable data on alternative crop growth but also encourages students to think critically about the future of food security. With climate change posing a threat to traditional crops like wheat and maize, exploring alternative options is crucial for ensuring food security for generations to come.
