During 2019, the IBCP began a programme to combat the effect of habitat loss for honeybees,by establishing 40, specially-designed Bee Lodges, to provide shelter and homes for wild bees. These lodges were erected in large trees in Fota Island and on farms in County Waterford.

In 2020, the IBCP designed and piloted, cavity-nesting, solitary bee habitat; these can be seen at many centres across Ireland.

Wild bees are currently occupying these shelters and will propagate over winter and next year to increase the relevant populations.

Along with the reduction of wild nesting locations across the country, the reduction in foraging sites has led to a significant loss of species and famine for Irish bees.

The Great Yellow Bumblebee is an example of this: where 60 years ago this species was prevalent throughout the country; but today it is endangered and found only in West Mayo.

The IBCP, through an education and networking programme, are working to increase floral-rich areas, which are desirable to our native bee species. This initiative is focussed on creating multiple, small areas of floral development in private and public areas and links directly into the Habitat Support initiative. We have also initiated an annual clover-sowing campaign.

This programme involves liaising with government bodies, businesses, farm groups, community groups, schools, hospitals, universities, eco groups etc.

These programmes will be carried out by IBCP in association with communities and schools who will develop projects and demonstrate how bees and pollinators can manipulate flowering flora and carry the pollen, which is necessary for the continued survival of both bees and flora.

This initiative will enable communities to visualise the links between the bees they see every day, their ongoing survival and food security. The added advantage to this initiative, is that communities will encourage their families and friends to support the biodiversity requirements for a sustainable future.

The Irish Bee Conservation Project (IBCP) is dedicated to developing and monitoring habitats for solitary bees, ensuring their survival and contribution to biodiversity. By creating suitable nesting sites and enhancing floral resources, the IBCP supports these vital pollinators.

Collaboration with third-level institutions strengthens research efforts, fostering greater awareness of solitary bee ecology and conservation. Through field studies, habitat assessments, and educational initiatives, the IBCP advances knowledge on solitary bee populations and their role in ecosystems.

This work promotes sustainable conservation strategies, empowering communities and researchers to protect these often-overlooked pollinators, for a healthier, more resilient environment.