Stingless bees, along with other life forms in the Amazon Rainforest, are sentient beings and deserve the right to exist. This perspective aligns with the indigenous cosmovision, which holds that all bees possess a spirit and must coexist harmoniously with their ecosystems. Traditional beekeeping laws often regulate apiculture but ignore the intrinsic value of bees and their essential connection to the ecosystem, focusing mainly on honeybees and neglecting stingless bees.
In partnership with For Nature and Earth Law Center, various organizations, we are dedicated to advocating for the rights of nature, specifically for bees and their ecosystems, with the goal of expanding this framework to other Amazonian life forms and traditional knowledge. Our initiatives include:
Promoting the Intrinsic Value of Stingless Bees: We advocate internationally for the recognition of the intrinsic value of stingless bees, emphasizing their crucial role in preserving the Amazon and highlighting their key role in maintaining biodiversity.
Preserving Traditional Knowledge: As custodians of stingless bees, we are committed to transmitting ancestral knowledge and sustainable practices in stingless bee conservation. This includes the harmonious use of their honey and byproducts, ensuring that these practices remain in balance with nature.
Developing an Ecocentric Legal Framework: Together, we aim to establish a legal framework that addresses the inherent needs of these species, grounded in principles of interconnection, reciprocity, and responsibility.