Can you give advice or direct us to where we could learn what we can do to actively help bee populations around us?
You can learn about the wild bees in your region and understand what natural resources they thrive on. Some of them are so specialized that they can easily be threatened by the loss of habitat. Some of the bee "houses" can become great activities for children. For example kids can build Mason Bee houses and watch them attract bees.
Supporting local beekeepers and bee-friendly farmers.
By trying to keep an immaculate lawn or mosquito-free areas, most of us sacrifice the local insect population including various bees that are affected by those pesticides.
By spreading awareness, but also starting your own hive is a great hobby and it's quite affordable if you have the time. You don't even have to have them in your garden or balcony. You can speak to local farmers, and they can be happy to host your hive on their property. That's how I started.
I have a bit of garden but in the middle of a residential district of a city. Do I have any chance to attract bees or is
> starting your own hive
the only way?
If I had a bigger yard I would host a couple hives of my own, I love just sitting out in the flowers in the warmer weather and watching them forage.
I have no issues with neighbours and have somewhere between 3 and 6 hives depending on how you count. This is in a backyard of a suburban section. Preemptive honeystrikes may have helped - I get 150-250kgs of honey that it’s no issue giving it away and that seems to generate good will.
> the only way?
Not sure if I understand. I've also heard of schemes where you can sponsor a hive, but I've never tried it.
sorry I meant a continuation of your quote as part of of the question there: ie. "is starting your own hive the own only way?"
I've started to plant bee friendly flowers, but they haven't grown much. I'll continue again in spring.