After two successful editions (in 2020 and 2021) the URBAN GreenUP project is back with the third and final edition of the #Flowers4Bees campaign, as the project itself is coming to an end. The new edition will be held on May 2nd – June 5th 2023 and this time it is inspired by the Pollinators Initiative of the European Commission, taking into account the recently revised version: New deal for pollinators (January 2023).
The Pollinators Initiative focuses on Europe’s diverse range of pollinators that are vital and essential for a healthy ecosystem and our wellbeing. Sadly, in recent times, there’s been a very sharp decline in their numbers, with many species even close to extinction. This endangers our food security, plant biodiversity, and economy. Some plants could even risk going extinct.
The revised Pollinators Initiative aims to expand knowledge, conservation, and mobilization related to pollinator decline. It sets objectives for 2030 under three priorities:
- improving knowledge
- improving conservation and tackling causes
- mobilizing society
During the #Flowers4Bees campaign, the focus will be on improving the knowledge of the public on various kinds of pollinators beyond just bees. It will also provide an opportunity for *Nature Based Solutions projects/experts to showcase their pollinator solutions and implementations, while simultaneously increasing awareness and informing the public on the subject.
Also relevant sources like the Pollinators Initiative page, EU Pollinator Information Hive, the Pollinator Park, factsheets, and more, will be linked and promoted to enable deeper understanding for both the general public and experts. This will enhance their visibility and encourage individuals to educate themselves further by utilizing these materials.
You can participate in the campaign by sharing on Twitter your pollinator photos and telling us in what ways you’re helping the pollinators, and also by joining the dedicated Facebook group. Don’t forget to use the official hashtag #Flowers4Bees, so we don’t miss your posts!
*Nature Based Solutions, as defined by the European Commission, are: “Solutions that are inspired and supported by nature, which are cost-effective, simultaneously provide environmental, social and economic benefits and help build resilience. Such solutions bring more, and more diverse, nature and natural features and processes into cities, landscapes and seascapes, through locally adapted, resource-efficient and systemic interventions.”