Edinburgh has been developing the first ever 3D printed wood log beehive in an effort to reverse the honeybee decline happening on a global scale.
The group of scientists from the Lacrima Foundation, a conservation charity from Edinburgh, hope that this innovative, state-of-the-art beehive will help mitigate the global decline of honeybees that participate in pivotal pollination processes for plenty of the food crops in the world.
Will this be the case?-It remains to be seen.
Innovative 3D Printed Beehive: The Hope for Declining Population of Beehives?
The cavity log hives are constructed using specially designed composite based on wood. It’s entirely biodegradable and gives these pivotal insects the chance to live in an ecosystem that isn’t disturbed and is in sync with their seasonal and natural rhythms.
This 3D printed beehive can be installed into trees and imitate the natural conditions for honeybees as much as possible.
The team behind this design is collaborating with both local and international organizations and is also supported by the UN and the government of Scotland.
The chair of Lacrima, Vince Mouch, explains that the goal of the launch of their non-profit is to provide solutions that are scalable and tackle the high mortality rate of honeybees by working on innovative methods that will better their health and safety.
Despite others, both individuals and organizations, working in the area of natural beekeeping, the influence, progress, and scope of these efforts are gradual and minimal because of the limited access to vision and resources.
Why Are Honeybee Populations Declining on a Global Level?
A decline in the population of honeybees is notable globally. According to experts, the reasons for this are numerous, including their loss of habitat because of massive farming efforts and other human activities, but also the overuse of toxic pesticides, as well as diseases and parasites.
The first UK sanctuary for native honeybees or the European dark bee was launched in Scotland back in 2013. This is when ministers granted a special designation that banned other species from being kept on the Oronsay and Colonsay islands.
This rare and pure-bred population is kept safe through its isolation from the mainland.
Interestingly, honeybees are part of the only several domesticated insects with data of apiculture going back to almost 10,000 years. Lacrima Foundation will keep working with beekeepers throughout the UK, Europe, and the US.
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