Of the 21 species which have been identified on the Monte Alegre Farm, the most important is the Mandaçaia (Melipona quadrifasciata), which is native to Brazil and on the list of endangered species. This was confirmed with the help of researchers from UEL (State University of Londrina), who were on location at the Plant. A record of this species attests to equilibrium of the local ecosystem and preservation of the biodiversity, proof that Klabin is operating in a sustainable manner and in harmony with nature.
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Klabin’s Program of Apiculture and Meliponiculture brings added value to the forests
In keeping with its Sustainability Policy, Klabin has run the Program of Apiculture and Meliponiculture at the Monte Alegre Plant in Telemaco Borba (PR) since 2007. The objective is to make the best possible use of the rich flora in forested areas, while preserving biodiversity and exercising social responsibility. With this program the company makes the production chain work, establishing rational and controlled use of the forest. The beekeepers, in turn, receive professional training and diversify their production activities generating income for their families. The species handled are native bees, known as indigenous melipones, as well as exotic bees that have adapted.
Meliponiculture entails the study and multiplication of native bees which are responsible for 40% to 90% of the pollination of vegetable species. 21 different species of these bees have already been identified in Klabin’s forests, among which are Jataí (Tretagonisca angustula) and Iraí (Nannotrigona testaceicornis) considered to be producers of top quality honey with therapeutic properties. Since many of the native bees have no stingers or present atrophied stingers, it is quite safe to integrate meliponiculture with environmental educational activities and with silviculture, which is the main activity of the region. Another advantage is that high quality honey opens up fresh labor opportunities in the area of Non-Wood Forest Products.
In the case of apiculture however, this project was run between 2005 and 2006 in one single apiary, using exotic bees of African origin (Apis mellifera), which adapted easily to the environment and also turned out to be highly productive and tolerant to disease. After the results of the first harvest – about one ton of honey – the program was effectively put into practice. Today, there are 14 standard apiaries in Klabin’s forests, each one with 25 beehives.
Good results were already apparent in the first year: in all, more than six tons of honey were harvested in 2007. Each beehive produced 18kg of honey on average, surpassing the national average of 16kg. By the end of 2010, it is estimated that another two thousand beehives will be installed in the area, and scientific studies will be initiated to optimize the handling and productivity of selected native and exotic species.
Currently, the program is run in conjunction with ATHA (Beekeepers’ Association of Telemaco Borba), and involves 14 beekeepers in 3 municipalities. The Association selects and trains the producers, as well as supplying part of the equipment. The beekeepers also get support from the town of Telemaco Borba, EMATER (Parana Institute of Technical Assistance and Rural Education) and the Ministry of Agrarian Development (MDA). Furthermore these producers have an option to join the Cooperative known as “Caminhos do Tibagi”, which assembles eight towns from the region and opens up further opportunities for distribution and sales of honey and its by-products.