Environment Texas creating a buzz about bees in Austin

Environment Texas

AUSTIN – Bees are dying off at alarming rates across the United States, threatening our food supply. This summer, young adults who work with Environment Texas will be visiting neighborhoods around Texas to talk about how we can work together to save the bees.

“Many of the fruits and vegetables growing across Texas will be a thing of the past if bees keep dying off at their current rate. Many people are worried that our bees are dying but they often don’t know what they can do to help,” said Alec Quintero, a Field Manager with Environment Texas. “I’m walking our neighborhoods this summer to not only educate people about this critical problem, but also to encourage them to act. That’s the fun and rewarding part.”

Worldwide, 100 crops provide 90 percent of the world’s food, and bees pollinate 71 of them. Neonicotinoid pesticides, commonly referred to as “neonics,” threaten bee populations. Maryland and Connecticut have already banned neonics for consumers. Last year, the city of Austin banned their use on city property and Travis County is considering a similar measure.

“No bees means no food, and the first step in saving the bees is getting rid of the pesticides that kill them,” said Quintero. “ Travis County can play a big role by banning the use of bee-killing pesticides on its properties.”

While other factors including global warming, habitat loss and disease contribute to bees dying, those problems require long-term solutions. Banning neonics is a step Texas can take today, so expect to see our canvassers around town, knocking on doors to raise awareness of this issue.

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Environment Texas is a statewide, non-profit advocate for clean air, clean water and open spaces.