Buzz for Change

The main objective of the project is to engage young people as active participants in nature conservation and to contribute to improving the status of wild pollinator populations through specific measures in both urban and natural environments. We offer the opportunity to participate in the practical restoration of habitats and the monitoring of pollinators directly in the field.

 WHAT ACTIVITIES DO WE PLAN TO CARRY OUT?

• Restoration of species-rich meadows in protected areas through the removal of self-sown trees and mowing, with the goal of restoring conditions for species-rich non-forest habitats.
• Creating pollinator-friendly features in urban environments, including planting native plant species, establishing flower strips, building insect hotels, and promoting pesticide-free zones.
• Monitoring of selected groups of pollinators (wild bees, bumblebees, butterflies) using proven citizen science tools (e.g., iNaturalist).
• Educational activities and workshops for youth and schools that introduce ecological principles of pollinator conservation and practical ways to help improve the condition of their habitats.
• Collaboration with local governments and communities to implement pollinator-friendly measures in both rural and urban areas (e.g., adjusting mowing schedules, planting native species, and limiting pesticide use).

The planned activities will help improve the condition of habitats, increase young people’s interest and engagement in nature conservation, and help gather important data on pollinators in the Bratislava region. At the same time, the project aims to support the implementation of specific measures at the local government level and raise public awareness of the importance of pollinators for the functioning of ecosystems.

Thanks to the project, we have developed:

A monitoring methodology for pollinators (available only in Slovak)

Initial results of the Buzz for Change project: Young people help pollinators in Bratislava

Photo: Marek Semelbauer

With support from IUCN Save Our Species, co-funded by the European Union.