Digital Desk: A new study published in the journal Environmental Pollution has found that air pollution makes it difficult for bees to find flowers.
The study was conducted by researchers from the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology and the Universities of Birmingham, Reading, Surrey, and Southern Queensland. The researchers found that ozone, a major component of air pollution, substantially changes the size and scent of floral odour plumes given off by flowers. This reduced the honeybees’ ability to recognise odours by up to 90% from just a few metres away.
The researchers also found that the effects of ozone were more pronounced in areas with higher levels of air pollution. This suggests that bees living in polluted areas are more likely to have difficulty finding food and pollinating crops.
The study’s findings are concerning because bees are essential to the production of many of our food crops. Bees pollinate about one-third of the world’s food supply, including fruits, vegetables, nuts, and oilseeds.
Air pollution is a major problem in many parts of the world, and it is only getting worse. The study’s findings highlight the need to reduce air pollution levels in order to protect bees and other pollinators.
Here are some things that we can do to reduce air pollution:
- Drive less and walk, bike, or take public transportation more often.
- Use less energy at home by turning off lights and appliances when you’re not using them, and by weatherizing your home.
- Support businesses and organizations that are working to reduce their environmental impact.
- Advocate for policies that promote clean air and renewable energy.
By taking these steps, we can help to protect bees and other pollinators, and ensure that we have a sustainable food supply for the future.