The world’s bee population is in peril. Habitat loss, pesticide use and new diseases are taking their toll on the pollinators who play an integral role in the food chain. For this reason, this past summer, PortsToronto worked with Alvéole
to install urban hives to support the local bee population. With Ontario’s colonies in rapid decline, the bees need help now more than ever.
Since 2007, up to 35 per cent of Ontario’s bee colonies have died annually – a significant increase compared to 10 per cent prior to this time. It may come as a surprise to some that cities provide a thriving environment for bees as there are strict anti-pesticide laws, ample untapped floral diversity and largely unused rooftop space. The benefits of urban beekeeping include local honey and garden pollination throughout the city.
Through its environmental mandate to protect natural habitats, PortsToronto works continuously to grow its nature-building and preservation initiatives, including the butterfly garden at the Outer Harbour Marina and the Tommy Thompson Park Wetland Creation Project in partnership with the Toronto and Region Conservation Authority.
To read more about PortsToronto’s environmental initiatives, click here