Nicosia: Honey production in Cyprus has faced a significant reduction of up to 30%, primarily due to adverse weather conditions, as reported by Senior Agriculture Officer Lysandros Lysandrides to the Cyprus News Agency (CNA).
According to Cyprus News Agency, Lysandrides highlighted the global pressures on bee populations, which are essential for biodiversity, environmental balance, and agricultural production. Bees are responsible for the pollination of 75% of the world's plants and support 80-90% of the production of various fruit and arable crops. This makes their presence vital, particularly in regions like Cyprus that are severely impacted by climate change.
Lysandrides identified climate change, habitat loss due to urbanization and fires, and the misuse of pesticides as the main factors behind the decline in bee populations. He cited examples such as Bulgaria and the United States, where bee colony losses have been catastrophic. However, he noted that Cyprus has managed to keep losses lower due to the expertise of local beekeepers and their efforts to mitigate loss effects.
The reduction in honey production is attributed to increased temperatures, prolonged droughts, fires, and urban development, which have collectively reduced wild vegetation. This, in turn, limits the availability of pollen and nectar for bees. Additionally, changes in the bees' biological cycles have weakened their immune systems, making them more susceptible to predators and diseases.
To counter these impacts, the state has implemented measures like the Beekeeping Programme and subsidies for hive relocation. However, Lysandrides pointed out that unfair competition from imported honey remains a significant challenge. Imported honey is priced substantially lower than local honey, affecting the viability of Cypriot beekeepers.
Despite these challenges, there is a sense of cautious optimism due to Cyprus' self-sufficiency in honey and the involvement of young people in the sector. Promoting the quality of Cypriot honey and educating consumers on honey adulteration in imports are seen as crucial steps for the industry's sustainability.
In a related development, the Cyprus Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCCI) announced the launch of the PLANBEE project. This Mediterranean collaboration aims to bolster the Bee Economy through rural development, entrepreneurship, and sustainable tourism. Co-funded by the European Union, PLANBEE seeks to enhance beekeeping skills, diversify bee products, and promote Apitourism.
The project features training for bee entrepreneurs, the creation of Bee Economy clusters, and the development of a MED Queen Bee brand to honor female bee entrepreneurs. Pilot tests of smart beehives and the establishment of Regional Apitourism Offices are also part of the initiative, aiming to position Mediterranean bee experiences on the global tourism map.
PLANBEE also involves policymakers to ensure long-term impact, with regional committees working alongside project partners to implement practical experience into policy changes.