Promoting Pollinator-Friendly Farming: Insights from the EU CAP Network Workshopp

The EU CAP Network hosted a workshop on June 18-19, 2024, focused on promoting pollinator-friendly farming to support sustainable agriculture. Highlighting initiatives like the BEESPOKE project, the event explored innovative approaches to enhance pollinator habitats across Europe. BEESPOKE, an EU-funded project, developed tailored seed mixes and tools to support specific pollinators, resulting in over 300 new wildflower plots. These efforts not only boosted crop yields but also contributed to broader ecosystem health.

Key takeaways included:

• Tailored Seed Mixes: BEESPOKE developed seed mixes tailored to specific crops, attracting key pollinators while avoiding pests. This approach helped create over 300 wildflower plots across the North-Sea Region - including the UK, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Denmark, Sweden and Norway, benefiting eight major crop types like apples, strawberries, and beans.

• Diverse Benefits: These wildflower mixes supported a wide range of pollinators, beneficial insects, and overall biodiversity. This led to improved crop yields and enhanced ecosystem health, as seen by farmers like Nils von Deetzen, who observed increased pollinator activity and new bird species in his fields.

• Innovative Tools and Training: BEESPOKE also provided online tools and training materials to help farmers assess pollination levels, choose the best flower mixes, and monitor pollinator diversity. These resources empower farmers to enhance pollination and contribute to resilient agroecosystems.

• Policy Recommendations: The project also offered policy recommendations to encourage pollinator-friendly practices, emphasizing the economic value of insect pollination, estimated at €15 billion in the EU.

John Holland, the project coordinator, highlighted the importance of selecting the right seed mix for each locality, considering factors like soil type and shade. Through the project's work, a database and online seed selection tool were created, allowing farmers to customize their wildflower mixes for optimal results. Holland emphasized the essential role of insect pollination in maintaining food supply and sustainable agriculture in the EU.

For more info: 

BEESPOKE, Interreg VB North Sea Region Programme

EU CAP Network workshop ‘Promoting pollinator-friendly farming’ | EU CAP Network (europa.eu)