On March 21, 2025, the Nature Picnic took place at the Social School in Mikołajki, attracting many science and nature enthusiasts. Employees of our Institute also participated in the event.

„How Does Acid Rain Form?” was the title of the workshop conducted by the Biodiversity Protection Team members: Anna Kononiuk, Katarzyna Boronska, and Anna Korzekwa. During the session, participants had the opportunity to learn how acid rain is formed and what environmental consequences it can cause.

A key part of the workshop was an experiment simulating the process of acid rain formation. Various materials—pellets, firewood, and hard coal—were burned in sealed glass containers filled with water. This process imitated the emission of harmful substances into the atmosphere, such as sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and carbon dioxide. Participants then measured the pH of the resulting mixture using litmus paper and a natural indicator—red cabbage extract. The results were analyzed together with the instructors, helping attendees better understand the issue of environmental acidification.

The workshop concluded with a quiz, where the most engaged participants received awards.

Around 180 people took part in the event, including students from Mikołajki and nearby schools.

The Nature Picnic also provided an opportunity to explore other educational stands. Workshops were presented by representatives of the Masurian Landscape Park, State Forests, the University of Warsaw Research Station in Urwitałt, agritourism farms, and the Forestry School Complex in Ruciane-Nida.