Written by: Valentina Galantari, HUB-CR

Bumblebees Bring Science, Biodiversity, and Nature-Based Solutions Closer to the Public

On 4 September 2025, ᴇNᴀBʟS’ Czech Living Lab participated in the annual Art & Science festival at VŠB – Technical University of Ostrava, where the campus transformed into a vibrant space for science, creativity, and hands-on learning. Visitors explored interactive demonstrations and workshops designed to make environmental topics accessible and engaging for all ages.

A highlight of the event was the presentation of a live bumblebee colony, introduced by Zemědělský výzkum, spol. s r. o. from Troubsko through the “Český čmelák” programme. Participants could observe the buff-tailed bumblebee (Bombus terrestris) up close and learn how pollinators contribute to ecosystem health, food production, and local biodiversity.

“We are pleased that visitors had the chance to see the bumblebees in detail and discover more about their ecological role. Experiences like these can encourage people to take a greater interest in the natural environment around them,” said Mgr. Helena Hutyrová from Zemědělský výzkum.

Throughout the event, participants shared perspectives on biodiversity, pollinators, and environmental topics relevant to their communities. The live bumblebee colony served as a concrete example of how natural processes support essential ecosystem functions -including pollination, plant reproduction, and the stability of local habitats.

Using this example, the Czech Living Lab team introduced simple, nature-inspired actions– such as planting native flowering plants, creating small habitats, or reducing chemical inputs -that can help support pollinator populations. These small-scale steps were presented as everyday, practical demonstrations of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS), showing how working with nature can strengthen local biodiversity and contribute to healthier, more resilient environments.

By combining scientific demonstrations with creative activities and open conversation, the Art & Science festival highlighted how communities can explore biodiversity and NBS in an approachable and evidence-based way. The Czech Living Lab continues to promote learning, dialogue, and cooperation between schools, researchers, and local organisations, helping audiences understand the value of natural processes and the benefits they bring to local ecosystems.