BEES have seen a 35 percent drop in numbers around the world because of pesticides and habitat loss, but — as Israeli start-up Beewise points out — they are vital to global food supplies. The company combines the traditional hives with AI and robotics to create high-tech “beehomes”, optimised for climate and humidity. The autonomous, self-contained units are solar powered and remotely managed. Beewise technology and automation increase yields, improve pollination — and may help to save the species. The BV jury savours this sweet success story and presents Beewise with the 2021 award for Most Innovative Start-up (Mediterranean).
