Save The Bees: It’s Deeper Than That

Bees are in grave danger and one of the biggest contributors is the beekeeping business itself that uses bees for their own good. With a wide stretch of hundreds of #SaveTheBees campaigns globally, it is mandatory for us to weigh in on the topic.

Here at Nahl Apiculture, educating the community about bees is a significant part of our brand identity and mission statement. We understand that it is our duty to represent the bees themselves, as well as build partnerships with those who have the same values as we do.

Why Are Bees Endangered?

There is no single cause for bee endangerment, but there are well-defined factors that we know for sure affect the bee population: habitat loss, pesticides, disease, climate change, and competition from (non-native) honey bees.

Pesticides such as neonicotinoids are used to kill and control pests in non-organic farming. However, they also harm bees by blocking neural pathways in their central nervous systems, resulting in disorientation, inability to feed, and death. Habitat loss is primarily due to human activity. Humans require building and natural resources to expand on their cities and communities. Without adequate planning, destruction of the bees’ natural habitat is inevitable as trees are cut down and buildings are put up.

The common misconception on bees is that they are to be avoided at all costs otherwise an interaction with them could be fatal for some. The issue, however, is that you could have a major negative impact on a hive whilst not even being anywhere near their proximity. Imagine this, an agricultural farm with a vast array of growing crops. The farmer routinely uses pesticides on the crops to prevent pests, when the bees come to pollinate those plants, they unknowingly take back to the hive toxic chemicals that eventually result in the demise of the whole colony. This is a reality far too many beekeepers are experiencing globally, hence, it is each and everyone of our duties to ensure we #savethebees !

Competition with non-native honey bees is also a part of human activity. As we introduce different bee species to the local environment, we may not realize how it might affect the already existing bee population. An increase in a new bee species that is not native locally can be detrimental to the local bee population. Alongside climate change and spread of disease, these are a few of the main challenges that bees have to face as a result of human activity.

That’s why we need to raise awareness.

What Measures Can Be Taken?

In a previous article we posted, we have to treat bees in the same way we treat our babies – with love and tender care. By supporting local farmers and beekeepers that stand for sustainability is one of the steps you can take. At Nahl Apiculture, we are always striving to provide a safe environment for the bees where they can build their nests and have access to a wide range of nutritious food sources. Another measure that can be taken is for YOU to provide a safe environment. Not only can you abstain from activities that contribute to the above threats, but you can also do things such as building a habitat corridor with plants that are high in pollen and nectar or even tending to your garden so it attracts bees!

The apiculture industry needs attention more than ever. Why? Because it has such a high potential for those who want to invest and receive a positive ROI, and also because the future of bees essentially lies in the way we approach sustainable apiculture. Apiculture is an uprising industry and will play a heavy role in shaping the economy (in Uganda). It is something that people should take an interest in, people must not allow this opportunity to pass them by and regret not being involved. Send us a message to set up a call and see how we can collaborate to achieve this shared vision!