Honey bee (Apis mellifera) is one of the most important plant pollinators and therefore plays a crucial role in the conservation of ecosystems, food production, and biodiversity. Due to climate change, particularly rising temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and more frequent extreme weather events, bees are increasingly exposed to environmental stresses. Higher temperatures alter the timing and duration of plant flowering, which can cause a mismatch between food availability and bee activity. Aside from that, increased temperatures shorten their lifespan, increase stress, and promote the spread of pests and diseases, particularly the Varroa mite (Varroa destructor), which is considered one of the main factors contributing to the decline of bee colonies. Changes in precipitation patterns also have negative consequences. Prolonged droughts reduce the quantity and quality of pollen and nectar, while prolonged rainfall limits access to food and increases the risk of starvation in bee colonies. The impacts of climate change on beekeeping vary by geographic location and are more pronounced in southern Europe due to poorer availability of food sources, lower honey yields, and greater challenges with diseases. In northern Europe, some areas are also experiencing isolated positive effects, such as a longer beekeeping season and greater food availability. Despite regional differences, climate change poses a serious threat to the future of beekeeping; therefore, timely adaptation measures are needed, including supplemental feeding of bees, adjustments to beekeeping practices, the breeding of more resilient bee lines, and improved training for beekeepers. Therefore, support from government institutions and closer cooperation between researchers and beekeepers are of great importance.
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