Adopt a Beehive in Basilicata

3Bee is the Nature Tech company that develops technologies for the protection of biodiversity. 3Bee Hive-Tech is 3Bee's first system for analysing the health and 'starvation' status of honeybees, environmental pests par excellence. Over time, we have developed other technologies to study and monitor all the pollinating insects and created more than 200 Oases of Biodiversity with thousands of nectariferous plants to provide them with nourishment. In this way, we want to create a virtuous circle: our beekeepers are transformed by necessity into Oasis growers and promoters of environmental biodiversity. We do not encourage massive production and intensive breeding, which have a negative impact on biodiversity and pollinators. We do, however, recognise the value of honey as a valuable symbol of the biodiversity of an environment and a tool for disseminating the commitment and protection of an area, to be consumed sparingly and with respect for the life cycle of these insects.

According to estimates reported by the National Beekeeping Registry, in Basilicata there are 549 beekeeping activities, of which 194 are limited to production for self-consumption, while the remainder are dedicated to the marketing of honey. These beekeepers manage as many as 24,951 hives, distributed in 1227 apiaries. Of these, most are cared for following the principles of conventional beekeeping. The most widespread breed of bee is the ligustica. Data from previous years show an average annual production per family of 30 kg of honey. In Basilicata, much nomadism is practised, which allows different types of honey to be produced throughout the territory. There are as many as 18 different varieties of honey produced in the region! 6 of these are considered very rare, typical of the area and proof of its rich biodiversity and environmental quality.

L'Apistica del Basento was founded in 2009, thanks to the contribution of a regional RDP that gave Angelarosa the opportunity to follow this 'passion' that has been handed down in the family for three generations. In fact, her grandfather has always kept bees in the rustic bugni, producing honey for self-consumption and bartering it, at the time, for cheese, pasta and other foodstuffs. Pancrazio, Angelarosa's father, shared his father's passion. Having moved to Trentino for work, he then returned to Basilicata, where he found a swarm in 1986, which prompted him to resume breeding these incredible insects. Apistica del Basento, despite having more than 500 cases, is still a family business, where his brother Francesco, sister Ilaria and his partner Enzo also work. They practice nomadism, from the Metapontino up to the mountains to let their bees follow all the blooms.

Giuseppe's farm is located in Oliveto Lucano, a small municipality within the Gallipoli Cognato Piccole Dolomiti Lucane Regional Park, near Potenza. Its beekeeping follows organic dictates and produces honey from honeydew, sulla, millefiori, citrus and coriander. Honey is a great protagonist in the cuisine of Basilicata. It often accompanies cheeses such as pecorino or ricotta, whose flavour it enhances. It is also a fundamental ingredient in numerous recipes, from the oldest to the most modern.

The Organic farm Antichi Sapori was established on the gentle Burgentine Hills and was founded by two young boys who had a clear goal in mind: to make a product with the same care and dedication typical of tradition, but with innovative techniques. They currently run 50 hives, but this number is constantly expanding. The land on which they have installed their apiaries has been specially prepared for bees. They are rich in plants with a high melliferous power, such as evodia, resupinate clover, lavender and chestnut trees. This rich flora, which is also complemented by a forest rich in conifers, gives their honey a unique and very special flavour.

Marco and Michele run their small organic beekeeping business, located near Potenza. One of the most important values they have learnt from bees is that of cooperation. They join the Con.Pro.Bio lucano consortium and combine Michele's great experience with Marco's desire for innovation. Adopt a 3Bee hive and you can choose to support one of these beekeeping activities and receive honey directly to your home!