An Analysis of the Decline in Bee Populations and Its Effects on Pollination
This study aims to identify the fundamental causes of the global decline in bee populations, its connection to climate change, and possible solutions. Review synthesized open access or peer-reviewed sources published between 2014 and 2024 from academic databases. It synthesizes data obtained from internationally recognized statistical databases such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES), and the United Nations World Population Projections (UN WPP). Data on colony sizes are presented in graphs and tables at the continental level. The findings indicate that bee populations are affected by multiple factors such as habitat loss, intensive pesticide use in agricultural areas, various parasites, and climate change, with regional variation in impact. The data obtained shows that bee colonies are increasing in some parts of Europe while decreasing in North America. This situation potentially reflects the impact of protection policies implemented in Europe. However, focusing solely on honeybee populations may cause losses in wild bee populations to go unnoticed. Therefore, this study emphasizes the importance of developing comprehensive strategies that can encompass all ecosystems, highlighting the criticality of collective action to preserve ecological balance, ensure economic stability, and safeguard global food systems.
Authors
- Burcu Sönmez
- Hasan Özcan
Publication Details
- Journal
- Bee Studies- Apiculture Research Institute
- Published
- 2025-12-30
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.51458/bstd.2025.48
- Primary Topic
- Insect and Pesticide Research
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00