“According to all known laws of aviation, there is no way a bee should be able to fly. Its wings are too small to get its fat little body off the ground. The bee, of course, flies anyway, because bees don’t care what humans think is impossible.” [1] For most of us, The Bee Movie might be our only interaction with the world of bees. We don’t know how impactful they are in our day to day lives.
Bees are little animals that make a big impact on our planet. Can you imagine walking through the produce section of the grocery store seeing only half the amount of produce that is usually there? This is one thing that would happen if bees were to go extinct. Farmers.gov reported that bees are responsible for over 130 types of the fruits and vegetables we enjoy daily. [2]
We hear the adage “save the bees” often, but we don’t know what we can do to make a difference. As a college student living in a dorm or apartment, it can feel impossible to do something to help. Here are some tips that you can implement to save these vital creatures as a college student.
Purchase locally sourced honey. Local honey supports the beekeepers in your area, making it possible for them to continue to provide shelter and nourishment for bees. It is also known to provide allergy benefits since you are ingesting small amounts of the local pollen in your area.
Don’t pick dandelions you see growing! Dandelions provide nourishment for bees and a place for them to rest while they search for more plants to pollinate. [3]
Purchase organic produce. A bee is fatally harmed when it pollinates a plant that has been sprayed with pesticides. Supporting farmers who choose not to use pesticides gives bees more organic plants to pollinate, leaving them unharmed and happy. [4]
Don’t kill a bee when you see one outside. If you’re scared or allergic, just leave it alone and walk away.
Bees are vital to our global health and implementing these small habits can help them escape extinction.
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