“Rice Brings Us Together—Culture, Climate, and Consumption”

The seminar explores rice from various perspectives: agricultural, climatic, economic, and social. The focus is on the diversity of rice varieties—from red, black, green, and purple rice to long-grain and short-grain rice, as well as Canadian water rice—as well as their origins and characteristics. Participants will learn about the biological and cultural significance of rice, which plays a central role as a staple food for millions of people and as a shaper of landscapes. The interactive introductory lecture highlights aspects such as varietal diversity, biopiracy, genetic engineering, and current research approaches in rice cultivation. It also features fair-trade cooperatives from India, Laos, and Thailand that advocate for sustainable and equitable farming practices. On the second day, grains and pseudocereals will be discussed in greater depth, and a speaker from the field of agroecology will address topics such as land grabbing, food security, and the historical and current impacts of the Green Revolution. The event will include tastings of various rice varieties and preparation methods, as well as culinary highlights featuring regional rice dishes. There will be opportunities for exchange, questions, and discussion. Participation is open to anyone interested in sustainable agriculture, food sovereignty, and cultural diversity.

The event will be held in German.

Department in charge: Greenhouse for (Sub-)Tropical Crops

Contact: info[at]weltlaeden-hessen[dot]de

Further information can be found here.