When we think of highways, we picture busy roads filled with cars and lorries. But in the Netherlands, a different kind of highway is quietly shaping biodiversity, and it is built for bees. A recent study conducted by Radboud University has found that flower-rich dikes attract a remarkable variety of pollinators, including rare and endangered bee species. These “insect highways” provide not only food and nesting space for bees but also resilience for ecosystems and food systems alike.
Over three years, researchers surveyed 160 dikes along rivers including the Rhine, Waal, and Meuse. Their findings were striking: 154 different bee species were recorded on the dikes, nearly half of all bee species found in the Netherlands. Among them were species listed as endangered, such as the meadow bee and the red cuckoo bumblebee. Compared to agricultural flower strips, which tend to be more uniform and less diverse, dikes provided a far richer habitat.
Why are dikes so effective? The answer lies in their structure and diversity. Their sloping surfaces warm quickly in the sun, creating ideal conditions for bees to nest. At the same time, the varied mix of plant species on flower-rich dikes offers pollinators a consistent and diverse food supply. The study also found that just eight different flower species are enough to dramatically increase bee populations, though rare and specialist species continue to benefit when even more plant types are present. In short, dikes bring together food and shelter in a way that few other habitats can.
The implications for conservation and business are profound. The Netherlands alone has more than 17,000 kilometres of dikes, yet many of them are still closely mowed and flower-poor. Unlocking the potential of these landscapes could be transformative, not just for pollinator biodiversity but also for agriculture and food security. More than 75% of crops grown in the Netherlands depend on pollinators, meaning that creating healthier habitats directly supports the food system.
For companies seeking innovative ways to contribute to ESG goals, flower-filled dikes offer a powerful example of how infrastructure can serve both people and nature. Supporting biodiversity is no longer just about setting aside “wild” spaces; it is about rethinking the spaces we already manage. From corporate campuses to urban landscapes, the lesson is clear: biodiversity can be integrated into the very fabric of our environments.
Investing in pollinator-friendly spaces also strengthens corporate reputation and engages employees in meaningful ways. A company that supports pollinator conservation is not only contributing to global biodiversity goals but also showing leadership in sustainable innovation.
The evidence is clear: dikes are not just barriers against water, they are potential lifelines for pollinators. By letting them bloom, we can create a resilient network of insect highways that benefit ecosystems, strengthen food security, and inspire businesses to take part in a sustainable future.
Curious about another critical factor in pollinator health? Read our article on Flowering Times and Pollinator Visits to see how timing alone can shape the future of biodiversity.