May 20 is World Bee Day. The United Nations designated this day to raise awareness of the importance of pollinators, the threats they face and their contribution to sustainable development. Bees and other pollinators, such as butterflies, bats, and hummingbirds, are increasingly under threat from human activities.
Pollination is a fundamental process for the survival of our ecosystems. Nearly 90% of the world’s wild flowering plant species depend, entirely, or at least in part, on animal pollination, along with more than 75% of the world’s food crops and 35% of global agricultural land. Not only do pollinators contribute directly to food security, but they are key to conserving biodiversity. Watch this short video about our Unsung Heros, to learn more these amazing creatures.
Want to help? Here are some things you can do in your own backyard:
- Plant a diverse set of native plants, which flower at different times of the year.
- Plant nectar-bearing flowers for decorative purposes on balconies, terraces, and gardens.
- Make a bee water fountain by leaving a water bowl outside.
- Avoid pesticides, and nursery plants that were raised using neonicotinoids (aka neonics).
- Buy honey and other hive products from your nearest local beekeeper.
Small contribution to your article in the form of drawings, French visual artist I produced a series on bee mortality by pollution from chemicals and pesticides used in agriculture. This series is presented at the Geneva Museum at the exhibition “Tout contre la Terre”. To discover: https://1011-art.blogspot.com/p/vous-etes-ici.html
But also in direct link “Hommage à Magritte”: https://1011-art.blogspot.com/p/hommage-magritte.html