A Synopsis of Crimes in the South African Beekeeping Industry: Contextualising the Industry Harms, Malpractices, and Risks
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Stellenbosch University
South Africa -
Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE) South Africa
Abstract
Honeybee species have received widespread attention of late, concerning various threats and criminal activity within the industry. As beekeeping involves human–environment interactions, it is situated at the interface between the human social system and the ecosystem. This is primarily owing to the role of pollination in regulating the ecosystem and its implications for global food security. Seed dispersal is also important for biodiversity conservation and environmental sustainability. However, capitalistic economic drivers continue to mismanage natural resources, threatening beekeepers, and honeybee species. This article sheds light on two major issues in the beekeeping industry in South Africa: hive theft and vandalism, and malpractices related to eco-labelled honey. It discusses these as instances of green crimes and provides insights into their implications.
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Author Biographies
Owner and founder of WildBloom Eco-Label Specialists Pty Ltd. Most of Lindi’s professional experience has been in environmental management systems and certification. She previously worked as an Environmental Specialist in automotive manufacturing, primarily responsible for ISO 14001: 2015 certification. She was also studying for her MA in Geography and Environmental Studies at the time. During her studies she gained practical experience in agriculture as a trainee for Certification Body. Which then led to her starting WildBloom Eco-Label Specialists, where she freelancers as an associate social auditor for a Certification Body specialising in agriculture, and independently provides technical expertise on eco-labels to both government and the private sector. The article presented is Lindi’s first publication, and also serves as an introduction to Southern Green Criminology, in which she hopes to sustain her engagement.
Control Biodiversity Officer, at the Department of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment (DFFE), Pretoria, South Africa. Tlou’s core work is on Biosafety for Genetically Modified Organisms and Alien Invasive Species, within the Directorate, Bioprospecting Risk Management. He previously worked as a Scientist for the South African National Biodiversity Institute (SANBI) and the South African National Parks (SANParks). Tlou holds a PhD in Entomology, and most of his research and work experience has been on honeybees. His other areas of work have been on plant-insect interactions, crop pollination, and various aspects of biodiversity/environment impacts arising from the cultivation of Genetically Modified crops. His current publications record includes five (5) peer-reviewed papers, four (4) book chapters, eight (8) technical reports and one (1) national assessment report. Tlou has so far supervised nine (9) postgraduate students. Tlou is also involved in various supportive and committee roles in his field of work across the respective sectors.