Did you know that without Earth’s pollinators, you would not have many of the foods you eat? Bees do not just make honey or pollinate spring flowers; they are also needed for crops such as almonds, avocados, blueberries, chocolate, coffee and numerous other fruits, nuts and plants people put on their plates.

Without pollination, the plants that produce these crops could not reproduce. Approximately 75% of all flowering plants require insects or vertebrates for fertilization. Pollinator Week provides an opportunity to celebrate all of these important creatures.

When Is Pollinator Week?

Though birds, bats, butterflies, and other insects are also important pollinators, bees are crucial to ecosystem and food system health worldwide. Pollinator Week is an international event that hopes to increase awareness of how important these critters. From June 21-27, 2021, you have the opportunity to celebrate these insects and help to save them.

What Can You Do to Celebrate Pollinators?

There are several ways that you can celebrate the bees and other pollinators. Your community may be hosting events to educate the public, display pollinator gardens or teach people beekeeping skills. Join in the fun or host your own event! You can also post your support and celebration of Earth’s pollinators on social media to help spread the word. Sign up to participate in the virtual Pollinator Power Party!

What Can You Do to Help Pollinators?

Bees and other pollinators are in trouble, but every citizen has the power to help save them. Here are some ideas to get you started:

•       Reduce your environmental footprint

•       Eliminate chemical pesticides

•       Plant pollinator-friendly habitat

•       Build a bee condo

•       Educate friends and family members

People and ecosystems rely on Earth’s pollinators to survive. Without them, the world would look much different than it does today. Every citizen, young and old, can participate in pollinator week and continue the effort to save the bees, butterflies, bats, and other threatened species all year long.