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<\/p>\nThe decline in the numbers of pollinators on all the world\u2019s continents is jeopardizing the survival of
\nplant species, the sustainability of our agriculture, and, indeed, human life. Nine out of every ten
\nplants need an insect in order to bear fruit and seeds, and it is calculated that 75% of food produced
\naround the world depends on insect pollination. Given this situation, the Museu de Ci\u00e8ncies Naturals
\nde Barcelona (Natural Science Museum of Barcelona), with the support of the European, Spanish,
\nCatalan, and municipal administrations, decided to create this exhibition to raise public awareness of
\nthe essential role of pollinators, and particularly wild bees, in guaranteeing the survival of the
\nmajority of plants on the Earth. Most of us know about honey bees, yet these are but one species
\namong countless others. On the Iberian Peninsula there are around one thousand different solitary
\nbee species that do not live in hives or make honey, and they are the true heroes of pollination and
\nof this exhibition.<\/p>\n
<\/p>\n
Taking a visual and educational approach across several different reading levels, to reach everyone
\nfrom schoolchildren to the scientific community, this exhibition recreates the natural life of bees and
\nuncovers how pollination works, how bees interact with flowers and insects, and the role bees play
\nin the ecological balance of our planet. It goes on to explore the main causes of the constant decline
\nin insect pollinator populations, which include the use of insecticides, the fragmentation and loss of
\nhabitats, environmental pollution, and climate change. The exhibition proposes good practices that
\nall of us can undertake to turn this situation around, such as responsible consumption, decorating
\nbalconies and terraces with aromatic plants for local pollinator species, and building bee hotels,
\namong others. It also outlines the different environmental initiatives currently being promoted by
\ninstitutions, associations, and European, state, regional and local governmental administrations, and
\nconcludes with a schedule of activities for all audiences.<\/p>\n
But that\u2019s not all! The exhibition continues outdoors in the Insect Garden, comprising a bee hotel,
\nan aromatic plant spiral, and a fruit tree orchard, enabling visitors to see first-hand everything they
\nhave learned from the pollinators.<\/p>\n