Sweet Solutions to Save the Bees

Honey bee populations are declining, and though scientists all agree that this is a very bad thing, experts are torn on what exactly is causing the drop off in bee population. While some blame pesticides, others point out that land development has probably played a significant role (fewer flowers means less food for bees). Bees are also facing trouble from mites, viruses, fungi and other pathogens, according to The New York Times.

And as any farmer, urban or otherwise, will tell you: We need the bees, and not just for their sweet honey. Bees are responsible for pollinating so many of our crops, which means that if bees die out, biodiversity will certainly suffer.

But enough with this grim talk. Instead of dwelling on the problem, the Whole Foods Blog is calling on readers to save the bees. They punnily ask us to "bee the solution" by following a few simple rules, including buying organic, planting species that bees will flock to, avoiding chemicals, and spreading the word. Extreme insect lovers (or just plain crafty types) can even get into the beekeeping movement. More and more urban dwellers are installing hives on their rooftops—no backyard required.

Simple Ways to Bee the Solution from Whole Foods Market Blog