Despite the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, a group of scientists from Israel, Jordan, the Palestinian territories, and European countries have come together to study the potential of barn owls to reduce pesticide use in agriculture. This unlikely cross-border collaboration has endured for 15 months, with researchers meeting online to discuss how to expand the use of barn owls for biological control and promote peaceful coexistence. The project aims to enlist the owls to devour crop-eating rodents instead of relying on farmers using toxic rodenticides.
Forecast for 6 months: The ceasefire between Israel and Hamas is expected to hold, allowing the scientific collaboration to continue and expand its reach. We anticipate the project to attract more international attention and funding, leading to the development of new technologies and strategies for sustainable agriculture.
Forecast for 1 year: As the scientific collaboration gains momentum, we expect to see the implementation of barn owl-based pest control systems in several countries, reducing the use of toxic pesticides and promoting a more sustainable food system. The project will also serve as a model for other cross-border collaborations, fostering greater understanding and cooperation between nations.
Forecast for 5 years: The barn owl project will have become a global phenomenon, with widespread adoption of sustainable agriculture practices and a significant reduction in pesticide use. The scientific collaboration will have expanded to include researchers from other regions, leading to the development of new technologies and strategies for addressing global environmental challenges.
Forecast for 10 years: The barn owl project will have played a crucial role in transforming the global food system, making it more sustainable and environmentally friendly. The scientific collaboration will have become a model for international cooperation, inspiring other nations to work together to address pressing global challenges such as climate change, poverty, and inequality.
