Andrew Mullins, Sustainability Development Manager, Bord Bia - The Irish Food Board

The National Biodiversity Date Centre and Bord Bia have launched a Framework for Businesses as part of the All-Ireland Pollinator Plan, which identifies actions that companies can take to help protect pollinators and the livelihoods of farmers who rely on their invaluable pollination service.

Alarmingly, Irish pollinators are in decline, with one third of our 98 bee species threatened with extinction. Furthermore, the World Wildlife Fund (WWF) denotes that biodiversity worldwide has declined by 52% since 1970. The problem requires immediate attention to ensure the sustainability of our food production, avoid additional economic impact on the agricultural sector, and protect the health of the environment.

Companies are being urged to sign up and implement the plan’s business guidelines. The guidelines, launched today, suggest 18 practical actions that businesses of all sizes can take in both indoor and outdoor spaces. Some of the actions include:

• Protecting areas that are providing food and shelter for pollinators
• Mowing lawns using a pollinator friendly regimen
• Install a bee or insect hotel
• Raising awareness in your community or supply chain
• Planting pollinator friendly bulbs, trees, shrubs and flower beds
• Reducing the use of pesticides

Commitment to the plan boosts employee engagement through relevant training and events and improves employee health and well-being. It also fosters community engagement and strengthens relationships with local groups.

For more information or to take part, please click here.