Location: Zwolle, Netherlands

Research Question: Name five edible plants (herbs, fruit, vegetables) grown in the region.

Answer:

Living in the Netherlands for my exchange has given me a whole new perspective on agriculture! Here in Zwolle, I’ve noticed how much this country values sustainability in farming, which is impressive. The Netherlands grows a lot of staple crops like barley, potatoes, and sugar beets. It’s also a big producer of vegetables like tomatoes, bell peppers, and cucumbers—most of which are grown in high-tech greenhouses that conserve water and energy.

I had a chat with a local friend whose family works on a farm nearby, and they explained how Dutch farmers focus on making their farms as efficient and environmentally friendly as possible. For instance, they use greenhouses equipped with water recycling systems, which means they can grow crops year-round while using less water. They also rotate crops and use precision farming techniques to keep the soil healthy without relying on heavy fertilizers or pesticides.

The Dutch are also big on vertical farming, which stacks plants to save space. It’s incredible how they’ve found ways to produce so much food on such a small amount of land. Between the advanced technology and sustainable practices, it’s easy to see why the Netherlands is known as a global leader in agriculture!

sources,https://www.climate.top/colombia/bogota/precipitation/

Some of the spicies of birds that it can be found in Aburrá Valley where Medellin is located in the Andes mountains are:

Andean Cock-of-the-Rock: Known for its striking appearance, the male has a bright orange plumage and a large, dramatic crest.

Chocó Toucan: This large, colorful bird is found primarily in the Chocó region but also in parts of the Western Andes near Medellín.

Rufous-collared Sparrow: A small, adaptable bird commonly seen in Medellín's urban parks and surrounding natural areas. It has a distinctive rufous collar and is easily recognized by its song.

https://www.melonthego.com/animals-of-colombia/

There are several types of edible plants that grow wild and are used for consumption in meals and in medicines. Lung Nuay Natural Farm was a perfect experience of mindful farming, chemical free. We saw cocoa nibs, grapesat their farm as well.

Location: Phattalung, Thailand

The plants in Thailand are lush, vibrant bright greens, and a variety of colours. The butterfly pea flower is my favourite plant used in food, and art and likely many other things. A very important plant in day to to living, and likely their economy. The photo above is my photo taken at Thale Noi in the upper Thale Luang(upper Songkhla Lake) known as the Natural Wonder of Phattalung South Thailand. . This area is lush and full of lotus and birds during the high season. The birds eat the lotus flower. Plants hold many special meanings in Thailand. Culturally, spiritually and by means of food. Bamboo and rattan is another very important in Thailand. This plant has been used for centuries. It is used to make by weaving into baskets to carry food, water and to create crafts and sell.

https://www.thailandfoundation.or.th/culture_heritage/thai-traditional-basketry-bamboo-basketry/

2.Breadfruit - A versatile fruit often roasted, fried, or boiled, commonly served as a side dish.

3.Callaloo - A leafy green vegetable similar to spinach, used in soups, stews, or as a side dish.

4.Scotch Bonnet Pepper - A fiery chili pepper essential to Jamaican cuisine, used in jerk seasoning and sauces.

5.Banana (and Plantain) - Both are staples in Jamaican cooking, used in dishes like fried plantains or boiled green bananas.

Japan is home to unique wildlife like the red-crowned crane, which symbolizes luck and longevity, the Japanese scops owl, which helps control pests and represents wisdom, and the Okinawa rail, an endangered bird essential for forest health. These species are vital for Japan`s ecosystems and culture, making conservation efforts crucial.

https://www.japan.travel/national-parks/plan-your-visit/guides-and-stories/wildlife-in-japans-national-parks/?utm_source=chatgpt.com

Destination: Norway

Although many people do not recognize that Norway grows various crops throughout the year, no matter how cold it can get. I was lucky enough to learn that my housemate's family home is located 8 hours away from the capital and that her family owns a farm. She was nice enough to tell me that her family grew lots of fruits, vegetables, and herbs such as strawberries, apples, and specific berries known as lingonberries and cloudberries. In terms of vegetables, potatoes, carrots, and onions are also grown. Something I learned very quickly living in Nrway is that although food is similar to Canadian prices, I found vegetables and fruits to be double the price in Norway.

Research question: How much rainfall does the country/region receive each year?

Answer: Tokyo, Japan, receives an average annual rainfall of about 1,600 millimeters (63 inches). The wettest months are typically September and October due to typhoons, while winter is the driest season.

Resource: https://www.climatestotravel.com/climate/japan/tokyo

Temperatures have become warmer, especially during the hot season, making it feel hotter than before. Rainfall patterns have also changed. Some years bring heavier rains, leading to floods, while other times, there is less rain, causing droughts. These changes affect farming, especially for rubber and rice farmers, who depend on steady weather for their crops.

Climate change and environmental changes, such as deforestation and urban growth, may be causing these shifts. Many locals have noticed these differences and are adapting by using better farming methods and water management to deal with unpredictable weather.

Location: Territorio Indigena Terraba, Boruca and Manuel Antonio National Park.

When Visiting the Terraba community I got to experience Cacao first hand. It was picked freshly from a tree and cut open and tasted the sweet pulp of the seeds which was surprisingly reminded me of pineapple to which the community explained to me that it was because of the pineapples growing close by and that Cacao pulp trees pick up tastes from things that are planted around them. Then I was shown the traditional way the Cacao is processed and it was absolutely beautiful. Another plant I got to try at the Boruca community is soursop juice which can be used as herbal medicine and has many health benefits. An elder of the Boruca community also told us about a plant that was used by shamans which I believe was called Salvia divinorum.

There was a lot more that I learnt but most were not edible but very cool like the mimosa pudica or (shameplant) that is sensitive to touch and closes its leaves as a protection.

Answer: Costa Rica gets about 100 inches of rain on average each year, but the mountain rainforests can receive up to 25 feet. The country has two main seasons: a dry season and a green season (MyCostaRica, 2021).

Community members across Costa Rica, including those from the Boruca Community and San José, told our group that we were visiting during the dry season. They explained that during the green season, it rains most of the time, leading to higher tides. Therefore, this justifies the average of 100 inches or 25 feet of rain during their green season!

Reference: https://costarica.org/facts/weather/

Destination: Costa Rica

On average, Costa Rica gets about 100 inches of rain each year, but the mountain rainforests can receive up to 25 feet. Simply put, the country has two main seasons: a dry season and a rainy green season (MyCostaRica, 2021).

Community members across Costa Rica, including those from the Boruca Community and San José, told our group that we were visiting during the dry season. They explained that it mostly rains during the green season, leading to higher tides, justifying the average yearly rainfall of 100 inches or 25 feet.

Reference:

https://costarica.org/facts/weather/

Vegetable such as corn, beans, and squash were what I had on my plate during breakfast, lunch, and dinner. This diet is found in Costa Rica because it comes from a long tradition of local vegetable farming called "companion planting." During our second morning in Boruca, I learned that they use roasted corn, brown sugar, and milk to make a warm delicious drink. I also had coconut juice by the beach since there are lots of coconut trees growing in Costa Rica.

Lastly, we visited a Cacao farm, where we "Ca" or cacao trees are growing. We tasted raw cacao and learned how to peel, grind, and turn it into paste. The women and elders shared that cacao butter is nourishing and keeps keeps their hair and skin healthy.

Answer: Based on the annual data across the country, Costa Rica receives around 3000mm of rain each year. However, this number can vary from provinces, cities and even communities. This is due to each region's vast elevations, ecosystems and weather patterns. Near the west coast, where we are (in Manuel Antonio National Park), the annual rain is 7424 mm of precipitation. This is due to the Intertropical Convergence Zone in the atmosphere providing many showers and thunderstorms. This is considered one of the rainiest regions in Costa Rica.

Source:

https://climateknowledgeportal.worldbank.org/sites/default/files/country-profiles/15989-WB_Costa%20Rica%20Country%20Profile-WEB.pdf

https://mytanfeet.com/costa-rica-travel-tips/visit-costa-rica-in-rainy-season/

1. The golden Silk weaver spider: This spider can be found in Costa Rica and we saw it in Manuel Antonio National Park. This spider is used in various ways like for example its web is used in bullet-proof vests.

2. The white faced Capuchin was also pointed out because it is very popular among tourists.

3. Finally, various birds such as Macaws are important for tourism and of course important parts on the biodiversity in natural areas.

Here are five edible plants commonly grown in the Tokyo region:

• Tokyo Negi (東京ネギ) – A type of green onion with a thick white stalk, used in hot pots and stir-fries.

• Komatsuna (小松菜) – A leafy green vegetable similar to spinach, popular in Tokyo cuisine.

• Edamame (枝豆) – Young soybeans harvested before they harden, often served as a snack.

• Shiitake Mushrooms (椎茸) – A common mushroom grown in the region, used in soups, stir-fries, and hot pots.

• Ume (梅) – Japanese plums, used to make pickled umeboshi or plum wine.

Reference:
Japanese Taste. (n.d.). Japanese vegetables 101: 20 healthy and unique veggies you need to try. Retrieved March 5, 2025, from https://japanesetaste.com/blogs/japanese-taste-blog/japanese-vegetables-101-20-healthy-and-unique-veggies-you-need-to-try

Cuesco

Tolu balsam

Mariposo

Caraño

1.      Strawberries – seasonal fruit is a big thing in Japan, and while I was here strawberries were one of the big ones in season. Whatever is in season, you will see a lot of desserts and decorations for that fruit, it almost feels like a seasonal mascot. I went strawberry picking and they were delicious and juicy. Japan has a lot of beautiful (but usually very expensive) fruits

2.      Citrus fruit – Japan has a variety of citrus fruits specific to the area, and those were also in season while I was here. You could sometimes see them growing on trees on the side of the road, especially as you went more south. It’s funny to think that a country that has a decent winter with snow also grows oranges a short ways away. They had sample oranges in one of the stores we passed through which were delicious.

3.      Sakura blossoms – the iconic Japanese cherry blossoms. I was lucky enough that there was a early blooming Sakura festival that had the timing coincide with my trip free weekend. The flowers were amazingly beautiful and there were so many desserts made from Sakura petals. I never realized that the flowers could be so delicious. I became addicted to Sakura desserts, which were a lot sweeter than I expected, and were all a beautiful pink colour. Apparently the depth of the colour of the desserts will change and deepen based on what sate of blooming the flowers were in.

4.      Plums (ume) – plums weren’t in season while I was in Japan, but the plum blossoms were. They come into season earlier than the cherry blossoms, so most of the flowers we saw in Tokyo were from plum blossoms. Apparently the plum blossoms themselves are edible, though I never got a chance to try any. I did try riceballs with pickled plums which were sour and delicious.

5.      Tea leaves – there are many varieties of tea that are grown in Japan. Our group had the fortune of going to an introductory tea ceremony where we got to make our own cup of matcha. Matcha is made from ground green tea leaves. Because you are drinking the tea leaves themselves, it has more caffein than steeped drinks such as coffee, it is a high source of antioxidants and provides many health benefits. Apparently it is often drank by Buddhist monks when they hold all night vigils because of its gentle invigorating natural effects.

Tulips are very well-known in Dutch heritage. Just by thinking of the country, you can imagine tulip fields with windmills and canals. Tulips are known for their beautiful and vibrant colors, which spread across a huge land. The time to see them is approximately mid-March to mid-May. The Dutch people also thought of the sustainability of growing the plant. They aim to grow high-quality of flower bulbs with as little impact as possible on the living environment and develop systems that make flower bulbs less susceptible to disease.

Potatoes are also important for the Dutch people and culture as a lot of Dutch recipes use potatoes, such as hutspot, stampot, and boerenkool.

Purple hyacinths are also common in the Netherlands. the grow in the spring along with tulips. They can been seen in Keukenhof which is a garden filled with the finest flowers, plants, gardens, and woods. located in Lisse, The Netherlands.

Source: https://www.holland.com/global/tourism/get-inspired/nl-in-7-stories/blooming-netherlands#chapter2

https://news.cgtn.com/news/2019-06-20/Plants-Nations-The-Netherlands-HGaJQ7auje/index.html

https://www.visitzandvoort.com/flowers-of-amsterdam#:~:text=Purple%20hyacinths%2C%20pink%20crocuses%2C%20yellow,our%20national%20treasure:%20the%20tulip.

1. Oak Trees – Widely present in Dutch forests, oak trees have historically been prized for their durable wood, which was used in shipbuilding and construction. They also hold significance in local folklore and play a vital role in supporting wildlife.

2. Beech Trees – Frequently seen in parks and woodlands, beech trees provide shade and display stunning autumn foliage. In Dutch culture, they are often associated with resilience and longevity.

3. Heather – A defining feature of the Dutch heathlands, heather produces striking purple blooms in late summer. It attracts visitors and has traditionally been linked to farming and grazing practices.

These plant species contribute to the Netherlands’ natural beauty, biodiversity, and historical traditions, making them significant in both ecological and cultural contexts.

https://weather-and-climate.com/average-monthly-precipitation-Rainfall,zwolle-overijssel-nl,Netherlands

1. Yellow throated toucan-it is a frugivorous species that is responsible for spreading seeds

2. Poison Dart Frogs: Control a lot of the insect populations; Have bright skin, known as aposematism to ward off predators

3. Leafcutter ants: These are important species as this animal uses leaves to help fuel the fungus that is used for food in their colony

• Observed Changes:

  • Like many places on earth, Bogota has experienced effects of climate change.

  • There are variations in the intensity and timing of the rainy and dry seasons.

  • There has been some increase in average temperatures, that can effect the normal patterns of precipitations.

  • Changes in rainfall patterns can affect water availability and agriculture in the surrounding areas.

In essence, while Bogotá's climate remains relatively stable in terms of temperature, shifts in rainfall patterns and intensity are the most noticeable changes related to global climate trends.

Reference: https://www.kuodatravel.com/blog/best-time-to-visit-colombia-travel-guide/

• African Fish Eagle

  • It’s the national bird of Uganda.

  • Found near Lake Victoria and other water bodies.

  • Symbol of strength and freedom, and important for eco-tourism.

• Marabou Stork

  • Commonly seen around Kampala, especially in urban areas.

  • Helps clean up waste by feeding on garbage and dead animals.

  • Plays a role in the city’s natural cleanup system.

• Black-and-white Colobus Monkey

  • Found in forested areas near Kampala, like Mabira Forest.

  • Important for maintaining forest ecosystems.

  • Attracts tourists and supports wildlife conservation efforts.

In Shinto tradition, sika deer are considered messengers of the gods, in Nara they roam freely in the city streets and parks. These deer play a role in vegetation management, feeding primarily on leaves, herbs, fungi, and tree bark. During winter months, they can even strip bark from trees, which helps maintain forest diversity.

Crow:

In Japanese culture and mythology crows are considered to be symbols of guidance and divine messengers, or a bad omen or death. They scavenge for food and food waste and are often attracted to large piles of trash.

Japanese Red Fox:

They maintain a diverse diet including rodents, rabbits, berries, fruits, and insects. In Japanese folklore and Shinto tradition, foxes are believed to be messengers of Inari, the deity of prosperity and rice. The fox's are often depicted holding symbolic items like rice sheaves or keys in their mouths.

Sustainability Question: How much rainfall does the country/region receive each year?

Oslo, Norway receives about 760 mm of precipitation every year. Western areas of Norway that have more mountainous terrain experience an average of 2250 mm of precipitation each year. This difference in precipitation is because of the regions’ relation to the Atlantic and Arctic oceans. Since Western Norway is more exposed to the sea, they have a maritime climate similar to the Eastern provinces of Canada. Because of this, Oslo and other Eastern regions in Norway have hotter summers and cooler winters with less annual precipitation.

Reference:

Weibull, J., Enander, H., Christensen, J., Sandvik, G., & Joys, C. (2025, May 4). Climate of Norway. Britannica. https://www.britannica.com/place/Norway

Research Question: What are three important species of wildlife or birds in the region? How are they important? 

1) Endangered Leatherback Sea turtles - Leatherback sea turtles in Costa Rica are endangered due to predators (Raccoons, Birds, Dogs, etc) egg poaching, and very low survival rates—only about 1 in 1,000 hatchlings makes it to adulthood. Poachers steal eggs to sell illegally or use it for their own consumption. That’s why rescue groups collect eggs and protect them in hatcheries, giving baby turtles a better chance to survive.

2) Red-eyed Treefrog- The Red-eyed Treefrog is one of the most common treefrogs in Costa Rica. They have about 69 known species of Treefrogs (Veragua Rainforest). The most critically endangered Treefrog is the Lemur Frog (Agalychnis lemur).

3)Resplendent Quetzal - The Resplendent Quetzal is incredibly important to Costa Rica because it's a symbol of the country's rich biodiversity, a cultural icon, and a major draw for ecotourism. I’ve also learned that Veragua Rainforets has over 300 different species of birds which is mind blowing.

Resources:

1) https://turtlerescuecahuita.org/en/

2)https://veraguafoundation.org

3)https://www.vacationscostarica.com/birdwatching/resplendent-quetzal/

edible plants

1. casava

2. chayote

3. plantains

4. papaya

5. cacao

https://crie.cr/what-types-of-fruits-and-vegetables-in-costa-rica/

1. Sea Turtles

We learned from our guide, Daya, that the sea turtles are a keystone species, which means that they will only come nest if the environmental conditions (water, temperature, beaches, etc) are good. The fact that we saw a leatherback nesting means that the environment is still doing well.

2. Bats

We learned from one of the biologists from Veragua Rainforest, Diego, that bats are important pollinators and pest control. Some bats will pollinate by eating fruit and depositing the seeds elsewhere, like under their leaf tents when they poop. Other bats are insectivores and eat pests.

3. Butterflies

We learned from an instructor, Olivier, at TEC university that Costa Rica is one of the top 3 exporters of butterflies. One way that women in rural areas can support themselves is by raising butterflies to be sold to other countries, which further supports their local economy as they spend their profits within the community. 

Research Question: how much rainfall does the country/region receive each year?

Answer: Costa Rica typically experiences two main seasons: the dry season and the green (or rainy) season. On average, the country receives about 100 inches of rainfall each year, though the more mountainous rainforest areas can get as much as 25 feet annually.

https://costarica.org/facts/weather/#:~:text=Average%20rainfall%20in%20Costa%20Rica,season%20and%20a%20green%20season.

1. Japanese Sika Deer (Cervus nippon)
   Roaming Nara Park and Mount Ikoma’s foothills, they’ve been Kasuga Shrine messengers for over 1,300 years. Their grazing keeps grasslands open—though unchecked numbers can lead to overbrowsing.

2. Copper Pheasant (Syrmaticus soemmerringii)
   An endemic forest dweller of western Japan, it needs dense undergrowth to nest and feed. Its presence marks a healthy ecosystem, and its iridescent plumage draws eco-tourism.

3. Japanese Serow (Capricornis crispus)
   This goat-like ruminant inhabits Ikoma’s high elevations and was named a Special Natural Monument in 1955. By browsing shoots and leaves, it cycles nutrients in mountain forests, reflecting effective conservation.

Winters have become noticeably milder, which has directly affected traditional events like the Elfstedentocht, a skating race that relies on thick, prolonged ice cover across canals. The last official race took place in 1997, and since then, winters haven’t been cold enough for it to be held again.

https://www.climatestotravel.com/climate/japan/osaka

This are four seasons in Nottingham spring,summer,autumn and winter, mainly rain , sunny and windy/cold.

Have there been significant changes in these seasons over the years (ie. Expected temperatures and rainfall etc.) How does this affect people and wildlife?

Yes, the seasonal patterns over the years due to climate changes that effect both human beings and the wildlife ecosystems we all have an Master wellness course on visit the arboretum Nottingham

"Change is possible when we all work together. Tackling climate change in a joined up way, through what we teach, what we research and how we operate gives us the best opportunity to make a real difference. We’d love you to get involved".

Andy Nolan, Director of Development and Sustainability at the University of Nottingham , we are learning about the Nature Wellness in the Masterclass by have an outdoor nature walk as a class all together as a team

https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/research/cop/our-university/our-university-and-climate-change.aspx

Source: Osaka Climate and Weather - Cities Insider

Climate Changes Over the Years

Nottingham has seen record-breaking temperatures and shifting rainfall patterns, reflecting broader climate trends:

Rainfall extremes: June is now the wettest month, with up to 67 mm of rain

Temperature averages: Annual mean has risen to 10.1°C, with warmer summers and milder winters

These changes suggest a warming trend, with more frequent heatwaves and less predictable rainfall.

 Human Impacts

• Health risks: Heatwaves increase vulnerability, especially for older adults and those with chronic conditions.

• Lifestyle shifts: Longer summers encourage outdoor activities but also raise energy demands for cooling.

• Mental wellbeing: Seasonal changes affect mood and routines; nature access becomes more vital.

 Wildlife Impacts

• Habitat stress: Wetter summers and milder winters alter food availability and nesting conditions.

• Species decline: Pollinators like bees face habitat fragmentation and reduced floral diversity

• Increase in ladybugs
  
  

Local Responses & Recovery Strategies

Nottinghamshire is actively addressing these challenges through initiatives like:

• Local Nature Recovery Strategy (LNRS): A county-wide plan to restore habitats and biodiversity

• Bee-Friendly Nottingham: Urban greening and wildflower planting to support pollinators

• Wilder Nottinghamshire 2030: A movement to engage 1 in 4 residents in nature recovery actions

These efforts aim to build ecological resilience, improve public health, and foster a deeper connection between people and nature.

References

https://www.nottinghamcity.gov.uk/leisure-and-culture/parks-and-open-spaces/nature-and-wildlife/

https://www.nottinghamshirewildlife.org/sites/default/files/2021-12/Wilder%20Nottinghamshire%202030%20public%20version.pdf

https://www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/planning-and-environment/countryside-and-green-spaces/local-nature-recovery-strategy-for-nottinghamshire

Research question:
Can you trace the water from rainfall (precipitation) to tap water in the Netherlands?

Rainfall is the primary source of drinking water. When it rains, water infiltrates into the ground and becomes groundwater, or it flows into surface water such as rivers. In coastal areas, river water is intentionally pumped into sand dunes, where it is stored and naturally filtered by layers of sand and soil over long periods of time.

After this natural filtration, the water is collected by drinking water companies and treated using gentle methods such as sand filtration, activated carbon, UV light, or ozone. Because the water is already very clean, the Netherlands generally does not add chlorine during normal operation.

Finally, the treated water is stored underground or in water towers and distributed through a closed pipe network to homes, where it comes out of the tap as safe drinking water.

Source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dune_water?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Water_supply_and_sanitation_in_the_Netherlands?utm_source=chatgpt.com

https://www.atlasnatuurlijkkapitaal.nl/en/node/561?utm_source=chatgpt.com