A new B-GOOD publication, published in Science Direct in October 2024, offers an analysis of the adoption of Digital Beehive Monitoring Technology (DBMT) among beekeepers. This research sheds light on beekeepers’ perspectives on digital tools for hive management, highlighting a steady shift in the European beekeeping landscape towards a more data-driven approach, which has been termed "Apiculture 4.0." 

The study surveyed 844 beekeepers from 18 European countries, revealing that a significant percent have integrated digital monitoring tools into their operations, particularly tools that track hive weight. While a majority (79.1%) of beekeepers still rely on traditional methods, the study points to a growing interest in digital solutions among professional beekeepers.

Beekeepers who have adopted DBMT report a range of benefits, including but not limited to improved hive management, colony health enhancement, reduction of winter losses, and saving time.

Beekeepers’ benefits sought from using digital beehive monitoring technology (%, n = 844).

Despite these perceived benefits, the study found that roughly a quarter of beekeepers are uncertain about the advantages of DBMT. This hesitancy underlines the need for greater awareness and education on how digital technology can enhance hive management and bee colony health.

There is also a distinct divide between professional and hobbyist beekeepers. Professional beekeepers show a significantly greater inclination towards digitalisation, while hobbyist beekeepers may prioritise different values, such as environmental preservation over technological advancement. This distinction highlights the diversity within the beekeeping community and the need for tailored approaches to encourage digital adoption across both groups.

The B-GOOD study’s findings underscore that personal attitudes, social influence, and perceived control are central to driving digital adoption among European beekeepers. And, with the so-called social tipping point of 25% for technology adoption being almost reached, European beekeeping stands on the verge of a digital transformation that could lead to more resilient, productive, and efficient apiculture practices. 

The B-GOOD study’s authors include Wim Verbeke, Mariam Amadou Diallo, Coby van Dooremalen, Marten Schoonman, James H. Williams, Marie Van Espen, Marijke D’Haese, and Dirk C. de Graaf. 

Read the full paper here.