Leigh Kathryn Bonner is the founder and CEO of Bee Downtown, a North Carolina-based company that aims to protect and promote the honeybee population by bringing hives to urban areas. Bonner’s innovative approach to beekeeping has earned her recognition and awards from organizations such as Forbes and the North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association.
Bonner’s interest in bees began during her time as a student at North Carolina State University, where she studied sustainable agriculture. She saw the potential of urban beekeeping to not only help protect the honeybee population but also improve the environment and bring communities together. This led her to found Bee Downtown in 2014.
Bee Downtown works with companies and organizations to install and maintain beehives on their properties. The program includes educational opportunities for employees and the surrounding community, helping to raise awareness about the importance of honeybees and the impact of urban beekeeping.
Since its inception, Bee Downtown has been involved in numerous projects around the Southeastern United States, including partnerships with companies such as Delta Airlines, AT&T, and Burt’s Bees. The company’s work has had a significant impact on the honeybee population and the environment, while also promoting community engagement and education.
Bonner’s leadership and dedication to beekeeping and sustainability have earned her recognition and awards from numerous organizations, including the Forbes 30 Under 30 list and the North Carolina Sustainable Energy Association’s Clean Energy Award. Her innovative approach to urban beekeeping has the potential to transform the way we think about bees and the environment, and create a more sustainable future for all.
In conclusion, Leigh Kathryn Bonner’s work with Bee Downtown is protecting and promoting the honeybee population through innovative urban beekeeping. Her leadership and dedication serve as a model for others seeking to make a positive impact on the environment and promote sustainability, and her vision has the potential to create a more bee-friendly and sustainable world.
