Pollinators
Pollinators play a vital role in growing many of the world’s key crops – one third of global food production is improved with the help of pollinators, most of which is performed by bees.
Recently there have been reports of increased over-wintering losses in managed honey bees across the northern hemisphere, and the crop protection industry has committed to support research into pollinator health and to promote farming practices that support the health of pollinators.
There are many factors that affect pollinator health, such as pests and diseases, management practices, weather, the environment, agricultural practices, and the availability and quality of food sources.
Here are some key resources to explain the role of pollinators in agriculture, and the role of the crop protection industry to safeguard pollinators:
Facts and Quotes. Global facts and expert quotes related to the role of pollinators in agriculture, factors affecting pollinator health and the need to protect pollinators.
Global Roundup. An overview on the development of pollinator health issues in Europe, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and South Africa.
Stewardship Guidelines. Advice on best practices for using crop protection products.
Factors Affecting Global Bee Health. Focus on the pests and diseases affecting bee health including a summary on how these relate to the causes of bee colony losses.
Here are some great pollinator resources from the global CropLife network
CropLife Latin America: Pollinator health website
CropLife Canada: Best practice document | Bees matter website ǀ What are insecticide treated seeds? ǀ Commercial honeybees in Canada ǀ Pollinator projects ǀ Farmers’ perspectives ǀ Photo gallery ǀ Further resources
CropLife America: Honeybees and varroa infographic ǀ Honey production state by state ǀ Busy bees benefit modern agriculture
CropLife Africa Middle East: Pollinator protection vital to crop protection
CropLife Australia: Pollinator Protection Initiative ǀ Bee Connected phone app ǀ Seed treatment stewardship guide
European Crop Protection Association: A summary of the issue
AGCARM New Zealand: Pollinator safety ǀ Bee health in New Zealand and overseas ǀ Guidance on applying pesticides ǀ Bees and neonicitonoids
Check out other useful resources at the following links:
Neonicotinoids and the Health of Honey Bees in Australia – Australian Government
Thematic assessment of pollinators, pollination and food production– IPBES
Bees and canola – Canola Council of Canada