Bees and other pollinators are essential for our existence, sustaining agriculture and biodiversity worldwide. With over 20,000 species of bees and various other wild pollinators, they face challenges from human activities, such as habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change.

In recognition of the pivotal role that youth can play in addressing challenges bees and other pollinators are facing, World Bee Day 2024 focuses on the theme 'Bee engaged with Youth'. This theme highlights the importance of involving young people in beekeeping and pollinator conservation efforts, recognizing them as the future stewards of our environment.

This year's campaign aims to raise awareness among youth and other stakeholders about the essential role of bees and other pollinators in agriculture, ecological balance, and biodiversity preservation. By engaging young people in beekeeping activities, educational initiatives, and advocacy efforts, we can inspire a new generation of environmental leaders and empower them to make a positive impact on the world.   

Fostering more diverse agricultural systems and reducing reliance on toxic chemicals can facilitate increased pollination. This approach can improve food quality and quantity, benefiting both human populations and the ecosystem.

20 May 2024, Rome, Italy - Jeff Pettis, President of Apimondia, Giulia Bonella, Head of Unit of the Presidential Estate of Castelporziano, FAO Director-General QU Dongyu and Thanawat Tiensin, Director of FAO Animal Production and Health Division stand during a group photo with students attending the World Bee Day Ceremony at the Presidential Estate of Castelporziano, Italy.

Photo credit: ©FAO/Pier Paolo Cito | View all photos

Highlights

World Bee Day 2024: Engaging young people as future beekeepers and stewards of the environment

---

3rd International event on bee health towards sustainable apiculture​

---

International forum for action on sustainable beekeeping and pollination

---