Putting the Bee in Biodiversity – World Bee Day 2023
We’re crazy about bees at Wylde. These little pollinators are fascinating creatures and critical for food security and nutrition. Join us on 20 May to celebrate World Bee Day and take a moment to consider the role bees play in maintaining biodiversity.
We’ve all heard the phrase “busy as a bee.” These creatures are among nature’s hardest workers carrying pollen from one plant to another to ensure the food chain is fed. Bees provide invaluable ecosystem services, crossing genes to support a rich variety of cultivated and wild plant species.
Did you know that:
• There are more than 20,000 species of bees.
• A single honeybee will typically visit around 7 000 flowers a day
• Pollinators contribute to 35% of the world’s total crop production
Almost 75% of the world’s crops producing fruits and seeds for human use depend, at least in part, on pollinators
• As well as honey, bees produce a multitude of products including wax, royal jelly and propolis – a mixture of tree resin and bee secretion which is valued for its antibacterial and antifungal properties
Species under threat
Although food security, nutrition and the health of our environment depend on bees and pollinators, in many areas these species are declining in abundance. They are threatened by several factors including pesticides, climate change, habitat destruction and intensive monoculture production. These all reduce bees’ access to food and nesting sites. They expose them to harmful chemicals, and they weaken their immune systems.
Under the theme “Bee engaged in pollinator-friendly agricultural production”, World Bee Day 2023 calls for global action to support pollinator-friendly agricultural production and highlights the importance of protecting bees and other pollinators, particularly through evidence-based agricultural production practices.
The United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) is promoting the adoption of pollinator-friendly agricultural production practices to protect bees and other pollinators, as part of a transition to more sustainable agrifood systems.
World Bee Day has been celebrated since 2018. It provides an opportunity for us to marvel at these wonderful creatures and educate people about the essential role bees and other pollinators play in keeping people and the planet healthy.
According to the UN, protecting pollinators would significantly contribute to solving problems related to the global food supply and eliminate hunger in developing countries. We can all take action to protect and enhance pollinators and their habitats, improve their abundance and diversity, and support the sustainable development of beekeeping.
Top tips to protect bees:
• Plant a diverse mix of native pollinator-friendly plants
• Avoid the use of pesticides, fungicides or herbicides
• Support local farmers by buying their honey
• Buy products from sustainable agricultural practices
• Protect wild bee colonies when possible
• Sponsor a hive
• Make a bee water fountain by leaving a water bowl outside
• Educate yourself by reading Silent Earth by Dave Goulson. Watch his YouTube video here: Talk: The plight of insects, and how you can help (May 2022) – YouTube
• Raise awareness by sharing this information with colleagues, friends and family
Read our Biodiversity eBook to learn more about the need to protect our flora and Fauna. We are passionate about biodiversity at Wylde and work with businesses to recognise nature as a key stakeholder. Book a Discovery Call today to discuss how we can support you on your sustainability journey.