The vital role of bees and urban beekeeping initiatives

The first terrace for bees has been inaugurated on a hotel in the heart of Milan, following the example of New York. An urban oasis dedicated to biodiversity and the protection of pollinating insects.

“If bees were to disappear from the face of the Earth, humanity would only have four years left to live“.

This famous quote, attributed to Albert Einstein, highlights the crucial importance of pollinators for our survival. Bees, in particular, play a fundamental role in the global food chain, with one-third of the world’s food production relying on their pollination activities.

For years, cities like New York have been at the forefront of promoting urban beekeeping. Beehives placed on skyscraper rooftops not only produce local honey but also significantly contribute to maintaining urban ecosystems. These green spaces provide refuge and nourishment for bees and other essential pollinators, protecting them from the threats of pesticides, habitat loss, and climate change.

Milan’s green initiative

Following the example of the American metropolis, Milan took a step forward in protecting urban biodiversity by inaugurating B&Bees on World Environment Day.

This green oasis, located on the terrace of the B&B HOTEL Milano Cenisio Garibaldi, is an ambitious project born from the collaboration between B&B HOTELS and Beeing, a start-up specializing in urban beekeeping. The project aims to create a safe environment for wild bees, butterflies, ladybugs, and other pollinators.

What plants were planted on the terrace?

The hotel’s terrace has been transformed into a rooftop garden designed to restore local ecosystems. Rich with plants like lavender, wildflowers, and jasmine, this green space was created to attract and nourish pollinating insects, crucial for biodiversity. Hotel guests can immerse themselves in a protected oasis, a true refuge for bees, butterflies, moths, and beetles, contributing to the conservation of these species essential for environmental balance.

B&B HOTELS’ commitment

To meet consumer expectations and ensure maximum transparency in its social responsibility commitments, B&B HOTELS has once again achieved SOCOTEC certification for 2023.

B&B HOTELS demonstrates its sustainability through employee well-being and environmental care. It received the Great Place to Work certification in 2018, recognized as one of the best companies to work for in Spain, thanks to promoting a happy, inclusive, and meritocratic work environment. Additionally, with the SOCOTEC certification for 2023, the chain is committed to preserving biodiversity, creating local jobs, and promoting cultural activities. These efforts showcase a concrete commitment to environmental and social sustainability.