In an effort to protect pollinator health, PoshBee recently published two research-based policy briefs. Building on the knowledge acquired during the project’s five-year run, these briefs focus on improving pollinator management and addressing the challenges posed by multiple stressors on managed pollinators.

PoshBee's Policy briefs.

(Policy brief 1) Mitigating multiple stressors on managed pollinators: Effectiveness and feasibility of implementing response options

The first policy brief focuses on the pressing need to address the multiple interacting pressures that pollinators face. Traditionally, efforts have concentrated on managing risks posed by individual stressors, but PoshBee highlights the importance of options that mitigate against multiple stressors.

The project’s comprehensive research has revealed an array of effective response options to address the multiple threats faced by pollinators. The feasibility of these response options could significantly be enhanced with policy and industry support, including agri-environment schemes, training, and equipment provisions. Such support could make these measures more attainable for stakeholders committed to preserving pollinators.

Read the full policy brief here to discover how policy can support the different response options available to farmers, beekeepers and land managers.

(Policy brief 2) PoshBee Toolbox: A portfolio of high quality methodologies, tools, and practice guides for pollinators

PoshBee's second policy brief introduces the variety of tools that the project developed, tested, and validated to bolster pollinator support. The toolbox includes, but is not limited to, experimental protocols for evaluating risks to pollinators, monitoring tools for measuring bee health, technological tools for field and laboratory work support, and practice guides offering recommendations on various topics. 

Currently, standardisation is lacking, with diverse stakeholders using various protocols and tools. To reverse pollinator decline and protect sustainable pollination services, policymakers should actively encourage or legislate for the adoption of standardised tools at both national and EU levels. Additionally, support for further refining existing PoshBee tools and developing new ones is essential to encompass additional stressors and apply them to a broader range of pollinator species.

Read the full policy brief here to get the full overview of PoshBee’s toolbox.

A third policy brief is currently in development and will be available soon!