Bee Friendly – How You Can Help to Save the Bees

The Problem

Pesticides and herbicides are killing our bees and other wildlife at an increasing rate. Without insect pollination, about one third of the crops we eat would have to be pollinated by other means, and up to 75% of our crops would suffer some decrease in productivity. This would lead to shortages and push up food prices, and some foods might no longer be available.

Environmental activists have been trying to get the most dangerous chemicals banned, with only partial success – 63% of neonicotinoid seed treatments are still being used, despite the recent ban.  Nine of the UK’s leading garden centres, including B&Q and Homebase, sell Provado Ultimate Bug Killer which contains a neonicotinoid chemical known as thiacloprid.

What can you do?

1) In your garden avoid the use of chemicals as many of them are toxic to the environment   and also harmful to humans.Instead of chemicals, use environmentally-friendly methods of pest and weed control see: http://www.greengardener.co.uk/

2) Don’t remove wild flowers such as dandelions, as they provide food for hoverflies, the larvae of which feed on aphids, and plant nectar-rich flowers: http://bit.ly/1JnR6TR

3) Buy organic food if possible – it’s much better for the environment and it’s better for you too.  Most of the big supermarkets now sell a variety of organic food or if you live near Chorlton you can go to Unicorn Grocery where they have a great selection of organic fruit and veg at very reasonable prices.

4) The Soil Association is actively campaigning against pesticide-use –  join or donate: http://bit.ly/1WF65O1