Nestlé and young people in bee conservation mission

More than 700 species of bees have been recorded in Serbia, where the largest part is made up of the so-called solitary species that do not live in hives and remain out of the public`s focus. Their presence is one of the indicators of ecosystem health, but also the reliability of agricultural production. Pollination also has a positive effect on the overall yield and quality of the fruits - their size, shape, composition, resistance and durability. However, due to climate change, excessive use of pesticides, and habitat degradation and loss, the population of bees and wild pollinators is decreasing.

Considering this alarming fact, Nestlé Serbia, in cooperation with partners and agricultural schools all over Serbia, decided to take concrete steps in order to contribute to the preservation of pollinators.

In the first, autumn phase of the project "Together as a gift to the bees", the focus was on improving local agroecosystems, therefore, five educational workshops were held in secondary agricultural schools in Požega, Kraljevo, Vranje, Futog and Vršac, in which 200 students participated and 200 honey trees were planted. These seedlings create conditions for the presence of a greater number of pollinating insects and serve as an outdoor classroom, where students learn about regenerative agriculture through hands-on work.

The initiative "Together as a gift to the bees" shows how important the cooperation of all relevant actors - educational institutions, companies, professional public and future agricultural producers - is, in order to create positive changes. Citizens also contributed, because during October and November part of the funds from the purchase of Nestlé products was set aside for the purchase of seedlings for school plots.

At Nestlé, they believe that the sustainable future of the food industry begins in the fields. Through the reduction of processing, the preservation of fertility, enhancing biodiversity and smart technology, together with agricultural producers, they are building a more resilient supply chain.