Challenges and opportunities of sustainability, certifications and traceability in the Italian beekeeping sector

The impact of beekeeping on agricultural activity is significant in environmental and economic terms, supporting biodiversity through pollination and contributing to rural livelihoods. However, in recent years, this activity has been increasingly threatened by climate change, competition from imported products, and widespread honey fraud, which undermine the sector's sustainability and profitability. This study explores the perceptions of Italian beekeepers and their associations with sustainability, certification, and traceability in the sector. The aim was to identify the challenges and the opportunities for the Italian beekeeping sector in sustainability, traceability, and certification. To this end, two types of analysis were applied to combine the results of the focus groups with three association/consortia and a survey of 360 beekeepers. Through this combination, the research highlights the challenges facing the sector, particularly those related to climate change and biodiversity loss. Associations emphasized the critical role of technical support and legislative measures in promoting sustainable practices, including improved regulation of hive products imports and combating honey fraud. Beekeepers showed strong awareness of their environmental and social role, particularly in pollination and biodiversity conservation, but less engagement with broader systemic issues such as certified production and climate change mitigation. Amateur beekeepers showed greater sensitivity to sustainability issues than professionals. The findings highlight the importance of collaboration between associations, policy makers and stakeholders to address immediate operational needs and promote long-term sustainability in the beekeeping sector.