After one of the most terrible weeks of Air Pollution in Mexico City’s (YES! We are in Mexico) history, it is time to celebrate #WorldBeeDay today.
What is the link between air pollution and bees? (You might be wondering)
Let’s talk first about bees…
In order to produce 1 pound of honey, 2 million flowers must be visited. A hive of bees must fly 55,000 miles to produce a pound of honey. One bee colony can produce 60 to 100 pounds of honey per year. An average worker bee makes only about 1/12 teaspoon of honey in its lifetime.
Source: http://www.goldenblossomhoney.com/education_bees.php
As you might have noticed, the last piece of information comes from a honey company. I would dare to say that companies like this one are the most interested in taking actions to keeping bees alive. But for opposite reasons to those of vegans. (Read The honey industry)
Now, talking about air pollution. It’s consequences are not exclusive for humans. Air pollution is also thought to be affecting bees. Preliminary research shows that air pollutants interact with scent molecules released by plants which bees need to locate food. The mixed signals interfere with the bees ability to forage, making them slower and less effective at pollination.
According to the UN, here is how you can help taking action to #BeatAirPollution.
Decide what action you are going to take to #BeatAirPollution
Here are some examples:
- Use public transport or car sharing, cycle or walk
- Switch to a hybrid or electric vehicle and request electric taxis
- Turn off the car engine when stationary
- Reduce your consumption of meat and dairy to help cut methane emissions
- Compost organic food items and recycle non-organic trash
- Switch to high-efficiency home heating systems and equipment
- Save energy: turn off lights and electronics when not in use
- Choose non-toxic paints and furnishings
Source: https://www.worldenvironmentday.global/get-involved/world-environment-day-mask-challenge
I would add that rather than just reducing your meat and dairy consumption, planning to gradually eliminate them while replacing that void with the best locally sourced and toxin-free produce (vegetables, grains and fruits) would be most beneficial to all life on Earth.
Have a look at the Food Target PDF for more info on how this can help you, other animals and the whole planet.
ON A FINAL NOTE: If you are into observing international celebrations, you’ll also want to pay attention to this date coming up soon:
Air pollution is the theme for World Environment Day on 5 June 2019. The quality of the air we breathe depends on the lifestyle choices we make every day. Learn more about how air pollution affects you, and what is being done to clean the air. What are you doing to reduce your emissions footprint and #BeatAirPollution?
The 2019 World Environment Day is hosted by China.