GlobalWafers’ Italian subsidiary, MEMC Electronic Materials S.p.A., recently installed beehives in the green areas of both Novara and Merano sites. This initiative marks a new step in the company’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainability. Through concrete action to protect biodiversity and support a healthy and stable ecosystem, the company demonstrates its commitment to addressing environmental needs starting from its local operations. GlobalWafers’ efforts aren’t limited to low-carbon manufacturing and renewable energy. Through this project, we have further integrated sustainability into daily operations, demonstrating a deep respect for the environment.
Bees are recognized by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) as one of the most important species on Earth. Approximately 75% of global food crops depend on animal pollination, and bees play a vital role in this process. However, according to United Nations reports, nearly 40% of wild pollinators, such as bees and butterflies, are currently at risk of extinction. The survival of bees is essential not only to agriculture but also to maintaining ecological balance and global biodiversity.
The beehives aim to create a pollinator-friendly environment that supports bee nesting, foraging, and reproduction, thereby enhancing biodiversity around the facility. At the same time, the initiative encourages employee participation in nature conservation, fostering greater awareness and engagement with environmental issues. To further support biodiversity restoration, cherry trees, clover, lavender, and rosemary have been specifically planted around the green areas of the site. Hazel and hawthorn will also be introduced in the future to encourage the return of native species. Protecting small yet essential species such as bees reflects the company’s respect for nature and its commitment to future generations.
Sustainability is not only about energy transition and carbon reduction. It is also about how we treat the species that share our environment. Although modest in scale, each beehive represents the company’s respect for nature and a sincere promise to the future. GlobalWafers will continue to promote local actions across its global sites, strengthening its environmental stewardship and responsibility. The company is committed to seeking a balance between technological advancement and environmental sustainability, making ecological protection an essential part of its long-term development strategy.