Beauty biz helps bees

Natural Health, June, 2008

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The sudden decline of the U.S. honeybee population has created a lot of buzz lately. The phenomenon, known as Colony Collapse Disorder (CCD), is of concern because bees are a critical part of the ecosystem--about a third of what we eat depends on their pollination. Until a solution arises, two honey-based beauty companies are stepping up:

* Burt's Bees has funded the Honeybee Health Improvement Project, which helps struggling beekeepers research and develop ways to strengthen the immune systems of bees. Visit burtsbees.com to search for local organic farmers who use methods that protect bees and to request a free packet of seeds that will blossom into bee-friendly flowers.

* The Savannah Bee Company purchases beehives in third-world countries with Heifer International to help promote the sustainability of bee colonies worldwide. Check out savannahbee.com for lotions, lip balms, and more.--E.F.