ISHS Acta Horticulturae 288: VI International Symposium on Pollination
THE VALUE OF HONEYBEE POLLINATION TO SOCIETY |
| Author: | R. A. Gill |
| Abstract:
Honeybees contribute in many ways to the well-being of society. This paper focuses on the benefits attributable to the pollinising activities of honeybees. In addition to agricultural crops, honeybees pollinate native and exotic flora, various kinds of livestock pastures and private gardens. Many people have attempted to value, with varying degrees of success and supportability, some of these various pollination benefits. As honeybee pollination benefits are so diverse and affect virtually all groups in society, the author has designed an economically supportable valuation methodology which can encompass all beneficiaries. This paper is concerned more with the application and implications of the results from such a valuation than the actual valuation procedure which is described more completely elsewhere. The pollination markets in the USA, New Zealand and Australia are briefly described. The wide range of pollination benefits and effects are also described. The motivations and experiences of others in attempting to value pollination services in various countries and their results are discussed and criticised. A value for the relatively undeveloped Australian market is derived and discussed. Finally, some discussion is provided on the various applications and implications of supportable pollination valuations for policy and other decision making. | |
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