At SureStore, our commitment to environmental sustainability goes beyond just storing belongings; we’re actively working to create a positive impact on our local ecosystems. You may not know but as part of our comprehensive green initiatives, which include solar energy, LED lighting, and eco-friendly construction practices, we’ve also introduced beehives at one of our self-storage facilities.
This initiative not only aligns with our dedication to supporting local wildlife but also plays a crucial role in promoting biodiversity and pollination in our community. Just as we offer secure storage units for our customers’ possessions, we also provide a safe haven for these incredible pollinators.
The Sweet Beginning: How It All Started
At SureStore Stafford, our commitment to environmental sustainability includes an on-site beehive. The inspiration behind this initiative came from our very own Claire, a passionate beekeeper since 2011. When Claire shared her hobby with Paul, our management team saw a fantastic opportunity to make a positive impact on our local ecosystem.
Choosing the Perfect Home for Our Bees
While the idea was initially considered for our Cannock location, we quickly realised that Stafford offered a more suitable environment for our buzzing friends. With ample space and a safer distance from high-traffic areas, SureStore Stafford became the ideal location for our new residents. We invested in a hive and welcomed a thriving colony of bees to their new home.
The Art of Beekeeping: Maintaining Our Hive
Beekeeping is both a science and an art. Claire explains that while bees are wild creatures that largely take care of themselves, beekeepers play a crucial role in maintaining the health and productivity of the hive. Regular checks are conducted to:
- Monitor for diseases and prevent their spread
- Ensure the bees have adequate space and food supplies
- Manage the natural process of colony splitting
Claire colony of bees behaves like a micro-organism, with each bee functioning like a cell in a body. Managing the hive involves carefully overseeing the bees’ natural instinct to reproduce by splitting into new colonies, a process that typically occurs in spring.
Honey Production and Distribution
The amount of honey produced depends on various factors, including the size of the colony and environmental conditions. As our beekeeping initiative grows, we hope to increase our honey production. Currently, the sweet rewards of our bees’ hard work are shared among SureStore staff, adding a delicious perk to our workplace!
Community Response and Future Plans
The response from our customers and the local community has been overwhelmingly positive. Many are fascinated by Claire’s beekeeping expertise and enjoy learning about this unique aspect of our self-storage facility.
Looking ahead, SureStore is committed to further enhancing our green credentials. We’re participating in initiatives like “No Mow May” to encourage wildflower growth and support pollinators. We’re also planning to plant more trees around our facilities, further contributing to local biodiversity.
At SureStore Stafford, we’re proud to be more than just a storage facility. We’re a buzzing hub of environmental consciousness, working hard to make a positive impact on our local ecosystem, one bee at a time!
For more updates on our SureStore beehive and some great tips on going green, check out our social channels! Follow us on Instagram @surestorestorage or like our Facebook page @SureStoreLtd.