Picture from Smith, Kat on Pexels
By Ariana Siu
The United Nations celebrates World Bee Day every 20th of May. Despite being seen as a creature of fear by many, bees are wonderful workers that support the ecosystem day by day. As pollinators, they pick up pollen from flowered plants in spring. Adhered to their bodies, it is scattered as the bees travel to other areas, sowing the seeds for the next generation.
The significant role of bees in continuing nature’s cycle of life has not gone unnoticed. 75% of the world’s crops rely on the work of pollinators such as bees. Without these creatures, biodiversity would be at stake. Other than playing a part in conserving biodiversity, pollination provides food security to many areas of the world by maintaining a healthy amount of wild plants available for foragers.
Currently, intensive farming practices and the use of pesticides have diminished bee populations by creating poor nesting environments and discouraging genetic diversity in the wild. Additionally, climate change has shifted flowering seasons and caused habitat loss. Increasing temperatures prevent bees from pollinating at the prime time for pollination, and natural disasters such as heavy rainfall wash away entire colonies. As a result, the biodiversity of bees is under threat.
What can we do?
- Plant a variety of native plants at home. This creates the amount of resources that bees can rely on for sustenance.
- Avoid using man-made pesticides. Using natural methods can effectively protect your plants while keeping bees safe.
- Purchase honey from local farmers. Many beekeepers rely on community support to make a living.
- Take part in community discussions to suggest solutions to support the bee population.
Let’s work together! By defending the survival of bees, everyone benefits from their pollination.
Work Cited
“World Bee Day | United Nations.” the United Nations, 20 May 2023, https://www.un.org/en/observances/bee-day. Accessed 15 May 2024.
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