You may have heard that bee populations around the world are decreasing, but a number of recent studies shed valuable light about just how pressing this problem has become. In fact, there are some parts of the world where bee populations have fallen by as much as a third – a trend that shows no signs of slowing down or reversing anytime soon.
Make absolutely no mistake: this is a critical problem that could negatively impact our futures sooner rather than later, on a global scale. So, what is causing the bee population to decline and why does this matter so much?
The Current Bee Situation: What You Need to Know
The world’s declining bee population is hugely problematic, as bees are critical pollinators. Not only are they solely responsible for the pollination of around 70 out of around 100 crop species, but those crops feed 90% of the planet’s population. When you look at it that way, honey bees are responsible for $30 billion per year in crops alone.
In another study, it was concluded that the dwindling bee population is caused by a combination of parasites, pesticides and habitat loss. That illness, coupled with the fact that smaller numbers means the remaining bees are overworked, have greatly contributed to the current problem. Sadly, modern farming practices play a big role in this as bees come into contact with larger fields filled with more pesticides.
Why This Problem Matters
If this problem continues and if the majority of the world’s bee population dies out over the course of the next decade, it’s safe to say that things are only going to get a lot worse before they ever have a chance of getting better.
For starters, an entire industry – beekeepers – will almost instantly go out of business in huge numbers. Without Beekeepers and their bees, farmers won’t be able to properly pollinate their fields. Once this happens, the world’s supply of certain types of foods will dry up immediately. From obvious foods like honey, to apples, bananas, avocados, coffee, strawberries, cherries, and so many more.
In addition to a global food shortage, this will decimate economies around the world. It’s clear, that losing the bees will set off a ripple effect with disastrous consequences. But don’t lose hope just yet, there are a few key things that you can do to get involved and save the bees!
Create the Best Possible Future: Save the Bees
One of the best ways that you can help save the bees at home involves making sure that your yard is stocked with all the right types of plants and flowers they need to survive. Think shrubs, trees and plants that bloom the longest. A cottage garden and herbs will also work wonders.
If you currently use insecticides, you should stop – again, the declining bee population is definitely a result of these types of modern farming and gardening practices. You could also create bee nest sites in your property (and do everything in your power to protect them) and only buy honey locally from a beekeeper that you trust.
A recent twitter campaign, #savethebees, had people helping tired and overworked bees. People were mixing two tablespoons of granulated sugar with one tablespoon of water, then placing the spoon out where the bee could reach it. The sugary mix brings bees back to their feet (or wings) in no time!
LiveTribe: Harness the Power of Your Voice For the Good of Us All
Progress may be slower than we’d like, but it is always steady – and never underestimate the contributions of one person when it comes to stopping a problem like this for now and for all time. Every little step that you take will absolutely make a big impact in terms of saving the world’s bee population, which itself will go a long way towards creating a better future for us all.
