We invite you to read the latest, 7th issue of Franciszek’s Trees – Energy.
This edition is dedicated to one of the key challenges of our time – the future of energy in the context of environmental protection, security, and accessibility. The authors explore a broad spectrum of topics: from renewable energy sources, through hydrogen and nuclear energy, to energy poverty, showing how the decisions we make today shape the future of our civilization.
The issue also features articles by researchers from the Institute of Dendrology, Polish Academy of Sciences: MSc Joanna Kijowska-Oberc and Prof. Ewelina Ratajczak, Prof. Agnieszka Szuba; Dr. Marta B. Kujawska; and Prof. Leszek Karliński.
Joanna Kijowska-Oberc, Ewelina Ratajczak – Where Do Plants Get Their Energy? (pdf)
The authors take the reader on a fascinating journey into the world of trees – from thermal energy essential for germination and survival, through the use of wind and water for seed dispersal, to photosynthesis and the work of mitochondria as the “engines” of the cell. They also explain how climate change affects the life cycles of plants and why protecting their energy potential is crucial for the future of ecosystems.
Agnieszka Szuba – Energy from Trees – On Woody Biomass (pdf)
The article examines the role of woody biomass as one of the most important renewable energy sources in Poland and Europe. It discusses its origins, economic importance, the potential of fast-growing plantations, and the legal and environmental challenges associated with its use. It also highlights how a sustainable approach to sourcing and burning biomass can support the energy sector while protecting forests and the climate.
Marta Kujawska – Mushrooms Full of Energy (pdf)
The author presents the remarkable potential of fungi – from their symbiosis with cyanobacteria, enabling the generation of electricity, to naturally enhancing the piezoelectric effect in wood. She also describes the medicinal properties of hundreds of species that support immunity, improve vitality, and can provide a natural “energy boost” in everyday diets. It is a captivating journey into the world of fungi, where science meets practical applications and daily life.
Leszek Karliński – The Life-Giving Energy of Trees and Fungi (pdf)
This article explores the extraordinary symbiosis between trees and mycorrhizal fungi, through which both partners gain access to valuable energy and nutrients. The author draws on scientific research as well as the rich traditions, beliefs, and symbolism of trees and fungi in cultures worldwide. It is a story of their significance in nature and human life – from ancient times to the present day.
The July issue of Kórniczanin (No. 13/2025) featured an article by Dr. Karolina Sobierajska and Prof. Dominik Tomaszewski entitled “GBIF – nature online” in the series “News from the Kórnik Gardens.”
The text describes the activities of the Institute of Dendrology, Polish Academy of Sciences, as part of the international GBIF initiative – the largest open database on biodiversity in the world. As part of the National Biodiversity Information Network (KSIB), the Institute makes data from the Arboretum and herbarium available in a format compliant with FAIR principles. Thanks to this, local resources are added to global collections, supporting scientific research, education, and activities related to nature and climate protection. The article also shows how the residents of Kórnik can get involved in citizen science projects through the iNaturalist app. We encourage you to read more.
“Forest Echoes” is a quarterly magazine of friends of the forest. It has been published since 1924. In the pages of the magazine you can find many interesting articles that are sure to interest nature lovers.
We encourage you to read all the texts, especially the column by Prof. Andrzej M. Jagodzinski entitled "A guest in the house. “Guest at home...”. The text refers to a longer article by editor Agnieszka Niewinska titled. “Wild animals are knocking at the door”, published in the same issue (2/2025). Enjoy your reading!
Link to “Ech Leśny” in electronic version:
https://www.lasy.gov.pl/pl/informacje/echa-lesne
From the series “News from Kórnik Gardens”
Does the neighborhood of trees affect the underground fungal world? Research by Dr. Marta Kujawska and Prof. Tomasz Leski has shown that the species composition of trees affects the structure of the soil mycobiome. Pedunculate elm, although previously suspected of being able to form ectomycorrhizae, has been shown to be consistently associated with arbuscular mycorrhiza. The experiment proves that with whom a tree “shares a pot” matters for all life underground.
The latest issue of “Kórniczanin” (no. 11/2025) features an article by Prof. Pawel Chmielarz in the series “News from the Kórnik Gardens”, titled. “With Fiedler to the Rogalin meadows”. The article tells of a joint initiative to plant pedunculate oaks on the Warta River meadows in Rogalin, inspired by the activities of Marek Fiedler and the literary legacy of his father, Arkady. The article documents the actions of scientists, the local community and nature enthusiasts taken to preserve the cultural and natural landscape of this unique place. W We encourage you to learn more.
Photo credit: Paweł Chmielarz