How changing weather is putting pressure on Britain’s beekeepers

From Stories From Round Our Way by Round Our Way

October 8, 2025 · 10 min

About this episode

Ian Campbell discusses the impact of climate change on beekeeping in Britain.

In this story we speak with Ian Campbell, a beekeeper and spokesperson for the British Beekeepers Association, at his apiary near Newcastle. Ian has been keeping bees for decades, witnessing firsthand how a changing climate is reshaping their behaviour and the environment they depend on. He explains how extreme weather, unpredictable seasons, and shifting ecosystems are making it harder for colonies to thrive, from disrupted flowering patterns to food shortages and disease. We talk about the crucial role bees play in global food security, the mounting challenges facing beekeepers across the UK, and Ian’s reflections on what the future might hold for an industry so closely tied to the rhythms of nature.

People in this episode

Guest: Ian Campbell

Topics covered

beekeeping
climate change
food security
environment
agriculture

Keywords

beekeepers
climate change
food security
extreme weather
pollination

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: British Beekeepers Association

Places: Newcastle, Britain, UK