BY THE OPTIMIST DAILY EDITORIAL TEAM

Insects are facing a crisis. Their populations are dropping at alarming rates, even in pristine nature reserves. That’s bad news not only for bugs but also for the birds, bats, amphibians, and ecosystems that depend on them. The good news is that you can help. These 25 actions are small, accessible, science-backed, and they’ll make a real difference. Whether you live in a city apartment or have a backyard to play with, there’s something here for everyone.

1. Turn out the lights

It’s not just moths fluttering around your porch light; outdoor lighting can spell doom for a third of the insects trapped in its glow. Constant artificial light disrupts insect behavior, reproduction, and even how they eat. “Once you turn off a light, it is gone. You don’t have to clean up like with most pollutants,” says behavioral ecologist Brett Seymoure. Try motion sensors, lower-wattage bulbs, or simply turning off outdoor lights when not needed. You’ll reduce light pollution, protect insect life, and save on your energy bill.

2. Plant native species

Local insects have evolved alongside local plants, forming intricate relationships over generations. Some bees, for instance, will only visit one specific flower species. By planting natives instead of exotics, you’re creating a natural buffet for your local pollinators. Bonus: native plants are usually hardier and require less water and maintenance, so they’re better for your garden too.

3. Swap moth bombs for tiny wasps

Clothes moths nibbling your sweaters? Instead of blasting your closet with toxic insecticides, try using microscopic parasitic wasps. These almost-invisible allies lay eggs in moth larvae and disappear when their job is done. Museums and historic homes use them to protect priceless textiles. Your wool cardigan deserves the same.

4. Start composting

Compost heaps are warm, damp, and full of decomposing matter: paradise for many insects. Over time, compost boosts soil fertility, attracting beneficial bugs that support plant growth. Even if you don’t garden, you can join local composting programs or start a countertop system. You’re not just cutting food waste, you’re creating a microhabitat.

5. Provide fresh water (the right way)

In a warming world, drought hits bugs hard. Help them hydrate by placing shallow bowls of water in your garden or balcony. Add pebbles or corks so bees don’t drown. Research shows bees prefer slightly murky water because it’s richer in nutrients. So don’t worry if your bee bath isn’t sparkling clean.

6. Leave the leaves

Raking your yard might feel tidy, but fallen leaves are vital insect real estate. Caterpillars, beetles, and even fireflies overwinter in leaf litter. Studies show removing leaves cuts moth and butterfly populations almost in half. Leave them be and let your garden thrive.

7. Create a balcony or window garden

No yard? No problem. A sunny windowsill or balcony with native flowering plants can be a lifeline for traveling pollinators. A single blooming pot can provide nectar and rest for butterflies or bees in urban jungles. It’s small-scale habitat restoration and it looks beautiful too.

8. Use medications responsibly

You might not link your antibiotics to insect decline, but everything flushed into the water system eventually ends up in nature. Medications can alter aquatic ecosystems and affect pollinators. Always take meds as prescribed, and never flush them down the toilet. Use pharmacy take-back programs instead.

9. Build a butterfly bank

A butterfly bank is a raised patch of earth with wild plants and varied sun exposure. It’s essentially a cozy refuge for butterflies to lay eggs, feed, and rest. Some species are extremely picky and need exact plant matches. If you’ve got the space, building one is a brilliant way to help butterflies beat the heat and survive unpredictable weather.

10. Rethink flea treatments

Many flea treatments for pets contain chemicals like imidacloprid, which are devastating to insects and leach into waterways. One monthly treatment can kill millions of bees. If you must treat your pet, don’t let them swim in natural water sources for at least a month after. Better yet, look into non-chemical flea solutions like grooming and natural repellents.

11. Try the 3 x 3 x 3 planting rule

Not sure how to start your pollinator garden? Pick three native plant species that flower in spring, summer, and fall, then plant each group in clusters. This strategy ensures year-round food for pollinators and makes it easier for them to locate nectar sources. It’s a foolproof way to get started.

12. Prioritize keystone plants

Not all native plants are equal. Keystone plants support dozens or even hundreds of insect species. In North America, oaks, cherries, and birches are top performers. These plants anchor ecosystems and feed caterpillars that, in turn, feed birds. Plant them, and you’re building a food web from the ground up.

13. Sprinkle some gravel

Most bees don’t live in hives, they actually nest in the ground. A thin layer of gravel or flat stones helps solitary bees dig and nest. Australian studies show bee populations increase when gravel is added. Contact a local bee conservation group to learn which setups best suit your area.

14. Eat organic when possible

Pesticides and herbicides used in conventional farming are among the top causes of insect decline. Organic farming avoids synthetic chemicals, giving insects a fighting chance. Even one organic purchase a week supports cleaner agriculture. It adds up.

15. Choose plastic-free fabrics

Your polyester sweater might shed hundreds of thousands of microplastic fibers per wash, and those end up in waterways. These particles are toxic to insects. Try switching to natural fabrics like wool, silk, linen, or organic cotton when possible. Every garment choice can make a ripple.

16. Cut overall plastic use

From packaging to kitchenware, plastics break down into microplastics that pollute ecosystems. Reduce plastic use in all areas by buying in bulk, skipping bottled water, and carrying reusable bags. Each plastic-free swap protects insect habitats.

17. Let things rot

Decomposition is part of life, and vital for insects. Rotting logs, fallen branches, and even dead animals feed a rich variety of invertebrates. If it’s safe, let dead wood lie. Think of it as leaving snacks and shelter out for nature’s cleanup crew.

18. Weed by hand

Ditch the glyphosate. This common herbicide damages insect immunity and decimates soil biodiversity. Pulling weeds manually or using vinegar-based solutions is safer and connects you with your garden. Plus, it’s a surprisingly good workout.

19. Make shade

Too much sun can literally fry insects, so your local bugs would appreciate a few shade patches. Shade helps them regulate temperature and survive heatwaves. Whether it’s planting a tree, putting up a trellis, or installing a shade sail, you’re giving bugs a breather from climate stress.

20. Skip the lawnmower—or mow less

Lawns are ecological deserts. Letting grasses grow allows wildflowers to flourish and insects to move in. Even mowing once every two weeks instead of weekly can boost biodiversity. If you can, then maybe consider converting a section of your yard into a wildflower haven.

21. Sow wildflower seeds

Turn that weedy patch or empty roadside strip into an insect oasis. Native wildflowers support bees, butterflies, and beetles. You can even DIY a seed shaker using a spice jar and sow while you stroll. It’s easy, cheap, and deeply rewarding.

22. Join a citizen science count

We can’t protect what we don’t understand. Join local butterfly or bug counts; some take just 15 minutes. These community-led surveys provide critical data to researchers and influence conservation decisions. Your backyard could hold the next big discovery.

23. Report invasive species

Invasive species like the Asian hornet can wipe out entire local insect populations in the UK. Learn what threats are active in your area and report sightings through apps or websites. You’ll help stop them before they take hold.

24. Support owls and bats

Bats and insectivorous owls control pests naturally. When they disappear, farmers reach for chemical alternatives. You can help by installing bat boxes, preserving old trees, and keeping lights low at night. More bats = fewer pesticides.

25. Cut your carbon footprint

Climate change is now the biggest threat to insects. Reducing fossil fuel use by walking, biking, flying less, or insulating your home can help mitigate this existential crisis. Every ton of carbon you save protects countless tiny lives.