The global decline of the bee population is one of the most worrying issues that we, as a human race, need to address and try to resolve as a matter of urgency.
Why Are Bees Important?
Bees are one of nature's most vital pollinators, and we heavily depend on them to pollinate around 75% of the food that we eat. It's been estimated that if all the bees died out, the UK alone would have to spend upwards of £1.8 billion a year, just to pollinate all the crops manually or artificially. That's an enormous amount of money for any first world government to account for, and the financial impact upon poorer countries would be catastrophic. The Guardian has an interesting article on how much we rely upon bees here if you want some more information on the topic.
Why Are The Bees Dying?
There are multiple theories that scientists and environmentalists are currently studying to figure out exactly why the population of the world's bees are in decline. The three most popular ones are based around habitat loss, climate change and toxic pesticides such as neonicotinoids. Due to growing evidence linking neonicotinoids to bee deaths, the EU imposed a partial ban on them in 2013 whilst more research is carried out.
What Are Apivita & Friends Of The Earth Doing?
Natural Greek brand Apivita decided to celebrate the launch of their new UK online shop with a pledge to support Friends Of The Earth's 'Bee Cause' campaign. They are donating 20% of sales from their honey-based bath, body and hair range to the environmental charity to fund important research projects, and to raise public awareness of the bees decline. The brand's very name (Apivita or Apis Vita) means 'the life of the bee' in Latin, so it's a cause very close to the eco-friendly ethos of the company. I've tried out a number of Apivita products in the past, and I'm thrilled that more brands like them are highlighting this issue by donating some of their profits towards finding an answer. Below are just two products from Apivita's honey based range where a 20% donation will be made to Friends Of The Earth:-
Apivita Royal Honey Rich Moisturising Body Cream* (200ml, £20.60, link)
Suffering from dry winter skin? This super rich body cream will instantly hydrate and soften, yet doesn't feel sticky or greasy. It absorbs easily and has a lovely pampering texture that makes it feel like a luxurious treat to apply after a hot bath or shower. Key ingredients in this 98% natural formula include Greek Thyme Honey, Olive Oil, Beeswax, Almond Oil, Shea Butter, Aloe Vera and Cocoa Butter to thoroughly moisturise and nourish dry skin, whilst Organic Orange and Rose essential oils have been added to give it a sweet and fresh natural fragrance. I love using this during a pampering session at home - it feels very spa-like and makes my skin feel so soft and smooth afterwards.
Apivita Natural Soap with Propolis* (125g, £5.60, link)
This was the brand's very first product which was launched back in 1979, and it has retained the same 99% natural tried and tested formula ever since. Designed to be used on both the face and body, it offers a deep, purifying cleanse thanks to the mild natural antiseptic properties of Propolis. I don't personally use soap on my face, but I like it in the shower as it produces a nice SLS-free lather and does an excellent job of leaving you clean without feeling stripped or dry. Great to use after a sweaty Hot Yoga or Pilates session!
To find out more about Apivita's support for the Friends Of The Earth Bee Cause campaign, visit here and you can shop the full range of honey-based natural products which include the 20% donation here. For those who are interested, I'm already a member of both Greenpeace and Friends Of The Earth, but I will still be making a personal donation to the Bee Cause campaign to cover the costs of receiving these products free of charge :)
Have you tried any Apivita products?
