World Bee Day

May 20, Tuesday

World Bee Day
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World Bee Day is an international observance dedicated to raising awareness about the importance of bees and other pollinators for the well-being of ecosystems, food security, and biodiversity. This holiday seeks to educate people about the threats bees face and encourage actions to protect them.

When is World Bee Day Celebrated?
World Bee Day is celebrated annually on May 20th. This date marks the birthday of Anton Janša, a pioneer of modern beekeeping, who was born in 1734. He was a Slovenian beekeeper whose teachings are still influential in apiculture today.

History and Background
- The idea for World Bee Day was initially proposed by Slovenia, a country with a rich tradition of beekeeping.
- The United Nations General Assembly officially approved the observance of World Bee Day in December 2017.
- The first World Bee Day was celebrated on May 20, 2018.

Why Are Bees Important?
Bees play a critical role as pollinators in ecosystems, contributing to the growth of fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds. These contributions are essential for:
- Ensuring biodiversity and the balance of ecosystems.
- Supporting food production for humans and animals.
- Sustaining agricultural livelihoods around the world.

Threats Facing Bees
In recent decades, bees have faced significant challenges due to:
- Habitat loss resulting from urbanization and agricultural expansion.
- Pesticide use, which harms bee health.
- Climate change, which disrupts blooming cycles and seasonal patterns.
- Diseases and parasites such as the Varroa mite.

How to Celebrate and Take Action
Here are some ways individuals, communities, and organizations can mark World Bee Day and contribute to protecting these vital pollinators:
- Plant bee-friendly flowers and shrubs in gardens or public spaces.
- Avoid using harmful pesticides in gardening and farming practices.
- Support local beekeepers by purchasing honey and other bee-related products.
- Spread awareness about bees' importance through social media and educational events.
- Advocate for policies that support sustainable agriculture and bee conservation.

Global Impact
World Bee Day brings together governments, environmental organizations, beekeepers, and the public to collaborate on projects that protect bees. By addressing the challenges facing pollinators and encouraging sustainable practices, this observance contributes to global efforts to preserve biodiversity and food security.

World Bee Day

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World Bee Day in other years

World Bee Day in other countries

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