Appointment of Dr. Urška Ratajc to the Honey Working Group of COPA COGECA
In a significant development for the European beekeeping sector, key figures from prominent beekeeping associations have joined forces with Copa Cogeca, the united voice of farmers and agricultural cooperatives within the European Union.
The Honey Working Party, a specialized working group within Copa Cogeca, has welcomed Dr. Urška Ratajc and Mr. Ellman Torsten as its newest members. Dr. Ratajc, a renowned expert in apiculture and a prominent advocate for beekeeping, has been appointed as the Slovenian Beekeepers' Association representative to the Honey Working Party. Mr. Torsten, President of the German Beekeepers' Association (DIB), now holds the position of vice-president within the Honey Working Party.
The collaboration between the Slovenian Beekeepers' Association and Copa Cogeca has been particularly focused on key issues related to honey origin labeling. The appointment was made by the Cooperative Union of Slovenia (ZZS), and the addition of these prominent figures is expected to bring significant advancements for beekeepers across Europe.
Dr. Ratajc is recognized as a leading figure in promoting sustainable beekeeping practices and supporting the welfare of beekeepers. Her work often intersects scientific research, policy advocacy, and education aimed at improving honey production, bee health, and environmental conditions favorable to pollinators.
Within Copa-Cogeca, Dr. Ratajc serves as a key representative or advisor on matters related to beekeeping and honey production. She contributes to shaping policies, providing expert insights, and advocating for regulations that support the beekeeping sector across Europe. Her role includes liaising between beekeepers' organizations, EU institutions, and other stakeholders to enhance the sustainability and economic viability of honey production.
In Slovenia, Dr. Ratajc holds a significant leadership or advisory role within the Slovenian Beekeepers' Association (Čebelarska zveza Slovenije). Here, she focuses on national beekeeping initiatives, supporting Slovenian honey producers, and promoting local and traditional beekeeping methods. Her work supports education, research, and the dissemination of knowledge critical to maintaining Slovenia’s reputation for high-quality honey and protecting bee populations.
Meanwhile, Mr. Torsten, as the President of the DIB, brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the Honey Working Party. His addition to the group is expected to strengthen the advocacy efforts for European beekeepers and further the organization's mission to shape policies that support the beekeeping sector.
This collaboration between Copa Cogeca and key European beekeeping associations promises to bring about significant advancements for beekeepers across the continent. As these organizations work together to address key issues such as honey origin labeling and sustainable beekeeping practices, they aim to create a more favorable environment for honey production and pollinator health in Europe.
In alignment with Dr. Urška Ratajc's role as a proponent for sustainable beekeeping practices, her inclusion in the Honey Working Party may foster discussions around health-and-wellness and nutrition as they relate to bees and honey production. As the President of the German Beekeepers' Association (DIB), Mr. Ellman Torsten's expertise can contribute significantly to the development of science-based policies within the Honey Working Party, which could potentially improve overall health-and-wellness and support the industry's commitment to sustainable nutrition.
