In communities within the Maya Biosphere Reserve in Petén, beekeeping with Apis mellifera has become an activity that connects sustainable production, conservation, and community-based work.
In 2026, World Bee Day is celebrated under the theme “Together for people and the planet: a partnership that sustains us all" highlighting the importance of pollinators for ecosystems and rural communities.
In the Maya Forest, bees contribute to the pollination of forest and agricultural species, while families find in honey production a source of income linked to forest stewardship. As part of this process, more and more women are participating in technical apiary management, sanitary monitoring, and honey extraction.
This year, we highlight the work of two women beekeepers who are part of these community efforts in Petén.
“People do not imagine the physical effort behind beekeeping: carrying boxes, working in protective suits under intense heat, and handling hives requires a lot of patience and dedication.”
“Working with bees has taught me to better understand the forest, flowering cycles, and the way bees live inside the hive. I feel fortunate to learn from them every day.”
With the support of the Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock and Food (MAGA), the National Council for Protected Areas (CONAP), the University Center of Petén of the University of San Carlos of Guatemala (CUDEP), and WCS Guatemala, beekeeping groups from communities such as Ruta a Carmelita, Cruce a Dos Aguadas, San Miguel La Palotada, La Pasadita, Cruce a La Colorada, and Paso Caballos have strengthened technical management and production safety practices.
In addition to strengthening local economies, beekeeping also supports forest restoration processes. The recovery of native species promotes flowering that feeds bees and improves honey production.
Although Guatemala is a honey-producing country, national consumption remains low compared to other countries. On this World Bee Day, we invite you to consume honey and hive products as a way to support the work of communities promoting sustainable production linked to forest stewardship.