CPN Publishes Educational Guides on Honey Bees, Urban Pollinators, and Climate Justice

Two educational publications were created through the joint work of the Learning Venture community formed by CPN within the EU-funded LEVERS project, and were first distributed to children and educators during workshops in kindergartens. Printed copies are now available at the Centre for the Promotion of Science.

The first brochure, “A Guide to the World of Urban Pollinators”, introduces children and adults to the “hidden citizens” of our cities – bees, bumblebees, butterflies, flies and other pollinators that visit flowers in parks, schoolyards, gardens and balconies. It explains why pollinators are essential for our food and biodiversity, how they live in urban environments, what threatens them (from habitat loss to climate change and pollution), and what each of us can do to help – from planting nectar-rich flowers and supporting wild plants to creating insect hotels. The brochure ends with an interactive section for the youngest, where children can colour and label the parts of a bee’s body.

The second brochure, “A Guide to Honey Bees, with a Small Contribution to Biodiversity: How to Create a Garden for Pollinators”, focuses on honey bees, urban beekeeping and practical steps for creating pollinator-friendly gardens. It explains who honey bees are, how a hive functions and what bee products (honey, wax, propolis, royal jelly, pollen and bee bread) mean for both the hive and the wider ecosystem. The publication then turns into a hands-on guide: how to assess your space, choose suitable plants, plan a garden that offers nectar and pollen through the seasons, reduce pesticides and provide water and shelter. Throughout the text, climate change and climate justice are presented as key reasons to support pollinators and protect biodiversity.

Developed and tested together with kindergartens and local partners through the Learning Venture, these brochures connect science education, everyday action and questions of fairness in the face of climate change. Educators, parents, beekeepers and anyone interested in urban nature can obtain the brochures at the Centre for the Promotion of Science and use them in their activities with children and the wider community.