Aruba, a small and picturesque island in the Caribbean, may seem like an unlikely place for beekeeping. However, Eco Living Aruba has shown that with ethical practices and a deep commitment to sustainability, beekeeping can thrive even in challenging environments. In this blog, we will explore the principles and initiatives that make Eco Living Aruba an example of ethical beekeeping on the island.
Putting Bees First
One of the fundamental aspects of Eco Living Aruba's ethical beekeeping approach is our commitment to putting the bees' well-being first. Unlike conventional practices that often involve feeding bees sugar water and providing them with wax, Eco Living Aruba allows the bees to operate naturally, without human intervention. By leaving the bees to gather their own food and build their own wax, they respect the bees' instincts and natural behaviors.
Limited Hives per Location
Eco Living Aruba understands the importance of maintaining a balanced ecosystem for bees. Instead of maximizing hive numbers in a single location, they limit the number of hives to only 2 or 3 per site. This thoughtful approach ensures that the bees have sufficient access to food sources and promotes healthier colonies.
Mindful Honey Harvesting
In line with their ethical philosophy, Eco Living Aruba practices mindful honey harvesting. Instead of extracting all the honey from the hives, they leave 30% of it behind, allowing the bees to have enough to sustain themselves throughout the year. This sustainable practice ensures that the bees have a consistent food source, especially during times when food is scarce.
Working with the Bees, Not having the Bees work for Eco Living Aruba
At Eco Living Aruba, beekeeping is viewed as a collaboration with nature, not exploitation. We work with the bees, recognizing their essential role in pollination and ecosystem balance. By maintaining a respectful and harmonious relationship with the bees, Eco Living Aruba supports the health and vitality of the colonies.
Bee A Foster Program
To actively involve the community in their mission, Eco Living Aruba has introduced the Bee A Foster program. This initiative allows individuals and families to participate in beekeeping activities, fostering a deeper connection between people and nature. By engaging locals in responsible beekeeping practices, the program cultivates environmental stewardship and appreciation for these vital insects.
Building Sustainable Bee Boxes
Recognizing the environmental impact of importing bee boxes to the island, Eco Living Aruba takes a sustainable approach by building their own bee boxes locally. In some cases, they use reclaimed wood, reducing the need for new materials and lowering their ecological footprint. This practice also promotes recycling and a circular economy on the island.
Challenges of Ethical Beekeeping on Aruba
Aruba's small size and limited food resources present unique challenges for ethical beekeeping. However, Eco Living Aruba's dedication to sustainability on Aruba and responsible practices has shown that with careful planning and consideration, it is possible to create a thriving beekeeping community on the island.
Educating the Public and Children
Beyond beekeeping, Eco Living Aruba is committed to educating the public about the importance of bees in the ecosystem. Through tours and presentations, they shed light on the critical role bees play in pollination, biodiversity, and food production. By raising awareness among children and adults alike, Eco Living Aruba aims to create a more bee-friendly environment on the island.
Eco Living Aruba's ethical beekeeping practices exemplify the harmonious relationship between humans and nature. By prioritizing the well-being of bees, limiting hive numbers per location, practicing mindful honey harvesting, and actively engaging the community, they have become an example of sustainable beekeeping on Aruba. Through education and empowerment, Eco Living Aruba demonstrates that ethical beekeeping is not just about honey production but about safeguarding the delicate balance of our ecosystem for generations to come.
