AIM OF THE PROJECT

Crete has about 2500 beekeepers with 200,000 beehives and produces approximately 2,000 tons of honey annually, being one of the country's most significant honey producers. Recently, «Pefkothymaromelo Kritis»  was recognized as a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) product (2017/1555, 12.09.2017 ΕΕ). The product specifications state that "in Pefkothymaromelo Kritis, concentrations of acaricides and pesticides are not detected, with a limit of analytical determination set at 10 μg/kg." Essentially, this means that the use of chemical substances to treat bee parasites is not allowed in order to produce " Pefkothymaromelo Kritis."

Most beekeepers use chemical substances to combat bee parasites. Often, they even use substances that aren't approved for use in apiculture. Therefore, this is an opportunity to provide Crete's beekeepers with an outlet without resorting to chemical use.

The aim of this Operational Plan is to create and evaluate a comprehensive plan for managing bee parasites without the use of chemicals at the regional level in Crete. Such a plan would offer a sustainable option for beekeepers who wish to produce honey that meets PDO specifications. Additionally, it would provide an alternative to chemical methods for all beekeepers, enhancing the quality of the produced honey.