Bengaluru, India – April 19, 2024. EY Global Delivery Services (GDS) is proud to announce a collaborative effort with Bhumi, supported by Vibhinna India Foundation, to establish 21 “Insect Cafes” across prominent botanical gardens in Bengaluru. This initiative tackles insect conservation and ecosystem health, with the goal of building a total of 21 cafes throughout the city.
Quotes from Key Stakeholders:
D. S. Ramesh, Director, Department of Horticulture, Govt. of Karnataka: “The launch of the Insect Café is a commendable initiative by EY GDS and its partners. It’s a crucial step towards protecting vital insect species. These cafes will not only provide safe havens but also raise public awareness about insect preservation. I hope they inspire others to create similar habitats.”
Manesh Patel, Chief Operating Officer, EY GDS: “EY GDS is committed to reducing our environmental impact. The Insect Cafe project showcases our innovative approach to sustainability, promoting biodiversity and ecological balance in urban areas. We thank Bhumi and Vibhinna India Foundation for their collaboration.”
Rumi Mallick Mitra, Director of Corporate Responsibility at EY GDS: “At EY GDS, we’re dedicated to empowering communities and protecting the environment. These eco-friendly insect cafes promote biodiversity and sustainable ecosystems. We’re proud of this partnership and committed to fostering environmental responsibility for a greener future.”
David Kumar, Founder of Vibhinna India Foundation: “The Insect Café initiative reflects our commitment to biodiversity conservation and sustainable ecosystem management. These cafes will support insect populations, contributing to overall planetary health.”
Project Details:
The project involves three events, kicking off with seven cafes launched on March 22nd at Doddasaagare Botanical Garden. Similar endeavors will follow at Lalbagh Botanical Gardens (April 19th) and Cubbon Park (June), with eight and seven cafes planned for each location, respectively.
Over 300 dedicated EY GDS volunteers have contributed so far, with another 150 expected to join the Cubbon Park event.
Made from upcycled wood, mud, and bamboo, these insect cafes provide safe nesting grounds for various insect species, particularly crucial pollinators like bees.
The cafes address the threats posed by urban expansion and intensive agriculture to insect populations, promoting biodiversity and a balanced food chain for a sustainable planet.
The project empowers local communities by sourcing upcycled wood from rural households, fostering sustainable practices and generating income.
Crafted with durable trees, these eco-friendly habitats require minimal maintenance. Additionally, 50% of the cafes’ cost directly supports women farmers involved in wood collection.
Following construction, a research study by entomologists and students in collaboration with the College of Horticulture, Mysore, will monitor the cafes’ impact on insect populations. The findings are expected to be published within a year.
