PITTSBURGH, Pa (PTTP) — The University of Pittsburgh Department of Bioengineering collaborated with the Department of Geology and Environmental Science to explore how pollination promoted urban biodiversity. Led by Dr. Corey Flynn, Sustainability Program Manager at the School of Medicine, and by Dr. Kevin Bell, Assistant Professor in Bioengineering, alongside undergraduate researcher Paloma DiBella, the team conducted a study over the summer of 2023, focusing on flower pollinator tracking at the Garfield Community Farm.
DiBella spearheaded field research as a dedicated student working through the Mascaro Center for Sustainable Innovation. Utilized a maintained logbook, she meticulously documented pollinator activity from May to August, comparing data to an empty lot in the same neighborhood. Pursuing a degree in environmental studies and a certificate in Sustainability, DiBella’s contributions were invaluable to the project’s success.
By observing pollinator behavior and tracking their interactions with various plant species, the team shed light on the vital role of pollinators in fostering ecological diversity within cities. Additionally, the research team created informative documents aimed at promoting public understanding of pollination processes and their significance in local ecosystems. These materials serve as educational tools, empowering communities to take proactive steps in supporting pollinator habitats and preserving biodiversity.
Their findings not only contribute to the knowledge surrounding urban ecology but also catalyze conservation efforts and sustainable urban development. As cities continue to expand, understanding the importance of pollinators and their role in maintaining biodiversity becomes increasingly vital. Initiatives like this one bridge the gap between bioengineering and environmental science, moving one step closer to creating landscapes where nature thrives alongside human innovation.
Credit: Paloma DiBella