The benefits of urban beekeeping
What did you eat today? There's a good chance some of what was on your plate got there thanks to bees — and we're not just talking about honey. In fact, the benefits of urban beekeeping go far beyond honey production, contributing to plant pollination and biodiversity in the city, which benefits both the environment and urban communities.
What threats do pollinators face?
- All around the world, we have more and more evidence that pollinators are disappearing due to habitat loss, pesticide use, the introduction of invasive plant and animal species, as well as diseases and parasites;
- As a result, today a large proportion of pollinators are threatened with extinction;
- North America has lost more than 50% of its domestic bee colonies over the last decade.
The benefits of urban beekeeping
Urban beekeeping can be a great initiative to invite citizens to plant flowers and plants that provide invaluable resources and habitats for pollinators. But not only that: it also opens up their perspective on the urban environment and the small winged creatures with which we share our world. Docile (and gentle!) European bees can be excellent ambassadors for the thousands of other bee species around the world! At Alvéole, our goal is for everyone to fall under the spell of bees (and pollinators in general, actually!). By bringing people closer to these inspiring creatures, we are building bridges to a better understanding of their importance, their impact on our food, and our ecosystems. By educating, creating wonder, and reconnecting city dwellers to nature, we believe we can make a real difference, one hive at a time.
Bees have an environmental and social impact on your community and your building
More and more buildings (schools, offices, and even shopping centers) are choosing to launch urban agriculture and green roof initiatives, because they are easy to implement and sustainable solutions for minimizing the impacts of urbanization. Urban agriculture and greening projects increase biodiversity in the neighborhood, while fostering a sense of community and belonging within your team and your tenants.
Research shows that between 2000 and 2030, urban development is expected to triple and lead to the destruction of ecosystems. By developing greener action plans, your organization can do its part to mitigate the negative effects of urbanization. Urban greening projects have the potential to mitigate the urban heat island effect, contribute to better mental health, and create greener habitat. In fact, a study conducted by an Australian research team revealed that green spaces in urban areas encourage the return of wildlife and flora. The study area that had been considered extinct due to urban sprawl came back to life!
Supporting biodiversity around your property
Did you know that bees can travel up to 5 km around their hive in search of nectar and pollen? By analyzing samples from their hive, we can determine both the flowers blooming in the area and the ones that are missing. This information can be used to grow a bee-friendly garden to better support biodiversity and ensure that your bees get the food they need, while creating a beautiful green space your community can enjoy!
Coming together for a common goal
Installing hives in the workplace is a unique way for your community to connect and collaborate. A hive not only allows people to build a bond with their bees, but also creates a sense of belonging in their building. Whether by following its online growth or by participating in workshops, interacting with a hive helps give positive meaning and build connections… Not to mention all its other delicious benefits, like taking up a new hobby or tasting real local honey from your own communal hive!
Raising environmental awareness
Your team will soon discover that bees are fascinating creatures. By investing in urban beekeeping and taking advantage of our interactive workshops, you will help them reconnect with nature, love bees, and better understand the importance of pollinators in the balance of our ecosystems. Plus, you can share the story of your building's hive, distribute its products (yes, honey too!), and become a leader in environmental awareness.
