As we acknowledge, bees, crucial for the pollination of food crops, confront challenges stemming from climate change and human activities.
Therefore, we opted to delve deeper into the current scenario by engaging in a conversation with Giuseppe Manno, Founder of Apicoltura Urbana, our partner for the FOMAS Group’s Apiary project.
Click here to embark on the Spring planting season!
We trust that with Giuseppe’s tips, you'll be motivated and play a part in environmental conservation. And don't forget to “bee friendly” with our pollinating friends!
A short interview to Giuseppe Manno:
- Also, this year, the climate situation is quite difficult... is the threat to the bees still high? Unfortunately, yes. Climate change, such as extreme events and unstable temperatures, is a major threat to bees, and this year is no exception.
- How are our bees in the Parco del Curone (Northern Italy)?
For the moment they are fine and enjoying their well-deserved winter rest, but the abnormal weather worries us. We are closely monitoring their health.
- Bees are an endangered species. What data about THEIR life are you most concerned about? The high temperatures these days, may prematurely awaken bees from hibernation. This will bring a serious risk, since most of the flowers have not yet blossomed.
- What is this negative trend caused by?
Climate change and its consequences are the main threat; the second is the use of pesticides on flowers and plants. Rising temperatures, mild winters and early springs, periods of long droughts alternating with short torrential rains, alter the natural cycles of plants and animals, including insects. Winter 2023 is a prime example of this trend: with 14% less rainfall and 1.14 degrees above average, bees are at risk of leaving their hives early, finding themselves without flowers to feed on and, in the worst case, risking death from sudden drops in temperature.
- As individuals what can we do to contribute to their preservation?
Each of us can make a difference even with small gestures, such as:
- Plant flowers and melliferous plants on balconies or in gardens;
- Mowing the lawns later;
- Avoid the use of insecticides harmful to bees.
We hope that with those insights you will be motivated and will contribute to the preservation of the environment.