Air pollution is not just harmful to humans - it's also changing the gut of British bumblebees.

(Image from Pixabay)

Pollution caused by human activities has an impact on our health. According to the WHO, worldwide, atmospheric air pollution is thought to cause 4.2 million premature deaths annually. Although British bumblebees may be also caught in the crossfire.

Studies have found that pollution can also affect the gut bacteria of bumblebees. Exposure to black carbon (a component of fine particulate matter PM2.5), pesticides and other chemicals can alter their gut microbiome, which can have negative impacts on their health and ability to survive, which can threaten our global food security.