In Scotland, the LACRIMA Foundation manufactures 3D printed wooden hives

There have been attempts in the past to combat bee mortality using 3D printed hives. The company HIIVE, for example, uses recycled materials to create a habitat for honey bees that is as close to nature and species-appropriate as possible through additive manufacturing. Now a new non-profit organization from Scotland has also set itself the goal of improving the plight that bees currently find themselves in. The main objective of the LACRIMA Foundation is to promote the protection and improvement of the environment, with an emphasis on the protection of honey bees and the preservation of their habitat.

By now we should all be aware of the devastating effects of intensive agriculture, pesticides and climate change on our ecosystems. As the most important pollinator in food production, the bee provides a means of subsistence for humans and thus constitutes the link between wild ecosystems and modern agricultural production systems. However, there are fewer and fewer natural spaces where they can establish their hives. Additionally, growing monocultures and using pesticides reduces their food supply, which also makes them more susceptible to disease.

Restoration of natural habitats (photo credits: The LACRIMA Foundation)

The LACRIMA Foundation therefore aims to raise awareness of a holistic approach to beekeeping and to increase people’s understanding of the complex relationships and life processes of nature, as this often seems to be forgotten. To this end, they are also working closely with the semi-normal peoples of Bashkortostan to develop a competent strategy to restore the health of the bee population, end the cycle of colony destruction, and develop a deep understanding of forgotten instincts. bees for a long time. .

According to the company, natural nesting habitat is critical to maintaining and renewing the health and resilience of honey bees. Therefore, the restoration of natural bee habitats is an essential part of its efforts to ensure the restoration of the genetic diversity, adaptability and vitality of honey bees.

Creation of a 3D printed hive (photo credits: The LACRIMA Foundation)

For the company, the best way to do this restoration of natural bee habitats is through 3D printed hives with cavities. These vertical hives are made of a special wood-based composite material that is biodegradable and allows bees to live in an ecosystem that better matches their seasonal rhythms. Indeed, these 3D printed hives can be installed high in tree trunks to mimic the natural conditions of insects.

To maximize its bee conservation efforts, the non-profit organization is working with the United Nations, the Scottish government, and beekeepers across Europe and the United States to create these 3D-printed hives for bees, guaranteeing their long-term habitats. You can find out more HERE.

3D printed hive (photo credits: The Lacrima Foundation)

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*Cover photo credits: iStock