Groups swarm to protect bees

Researchers, policymakers, campaigners and farmers have agreed to form a partnership to protect Europe’s bees, whose numbers have plummeted in recent years.

The groups agreed to form the partnership at a scientific meeting in Brussels on 27 June, which was co-hosted by the European Food Safety Authority. The meeting brought together 120 participants from the various professions.

“We have a clear way forward: Efsa will facilitate the establishment of a group to make the European Bee Partnership happen,” said Simon More, who heads Efsa’s working group on risks to bees. “But this is just the beginning.”