How YOU can help pollinators, at home and at work
20 May is World Bee Day, a special time to celebrate bees and other pollinators, and to remember just how important they are to our everyday lives.
Pollinators help plants grow, produce fruit and make seeds. Without them, we’d have a lot less food on our plates and far fewer flowers in our fields.
But pollinators like bees, butterflies and hoverflies are in trouble. Their numbers are going down because of things like pollution, habitat loss and the use of harmful chemicals. That’s why World Bee Day is also about taking action to protect them.
Why should we care about pollinators?
Pollinators are key to a healthy planet. They help grow over 75% of the world’s flowering plants and crops. That includes lots of the fruits, vegetables and nuts we eat every day.
In Ireland, many schools and groups are working hard to protect pollinators and promote simple, sustainable ways we can all get involved.
Here’s how you can help, no matter where you are:
- Grow for the bees
Plant wildflowers, herbs or fruit trees, especially ones that bloom at different times of the year. Even a small patch or a window box can make a big difference. - Say no to pesticides
Avoid using chemicals and weedkillers in your garden. These can harm pollinators, and their food sources. - Make a bee-friendly space
Leave a bit of your garden wild, with long grass or piles of wood where bees can nest. Or try putting up a bee hotel! - Provide a source of water
Set out shallow dishes with clean water and pebbles for pollinators to land on safely.
- Mow less frequently
Allowing clover, dandelions and other wild plants to flower supports pollinators. - Shop with bees in mind
Support local farmers and buy organic food when you can. This helps reduce the use of harmful chemicals in farming. - Spread the word
Talk to your friends, neighbours or colleagues about how to help pollinators. The more people who know, the more we can do together.
Every small action adds up.
Whether you’re planting a few flowers, skipping the weedkiller, or joining a community project, you’re making a difference.
This World Bee Day, let’s all do a little something to protect the bees, and build a better, greener future for everyone.
