A Monmouth based charity is calling on the local community to support a special Earth Day campaign helping protect the Amazon rainforest while improving lives.

Bees for Development, based in Monmouth, has launched Earth Raise, a match-funded appeal running from 22–29 April 2026. During this time, every donation will be doubled, supporting sustainable beekeeping projects with Indigenous communities in the Peruvian Amazon.

Deforestation across the Amazon continues to be driven by illegal mining, logging and land-use change. Many Indigenous families rely on farming that can require clearing forest. Bees for Development offers an alternative: stingless beekeeping a low-cost, low-labour practice that provides income through honey and related products without harming the forest.

The campaign aims to support 200 people across three regions of Peru to develop sustainable livelihoods, train Indigenous bee champions, grow markets for bee products, protect bee habitats, and engage young people through education.

One beekeeper already benefiting is Miceala Humman, an Asháninka leader and mother of twin boys. She keeps stingless bees for income and medicinal honey, deeply rooted in her culture, and now supports other women in her community.

“Stingless beekeeping has given me strength as a leader. I used to be shy, but now I talk to everyone,” she said.

Every donation made during the campaign will have twice the impact and be doubled.

Jenny Handley, Head of Comms & Fundraising said:

“This Earth Day, people in Monmouthshire can help protect one of the world’s most important ecosystems while supporting communities to thrive.”

Donate between 22–29 April and have your gift doubled please help protect the Amazon Rain Forest and support Indigenous beekeepers today. Beekeepers protect Peru's Amazon rainforest – Big Give

Her Majesty The Queen is President of Bees for Development, championing the vital connection between bees, sustainable livelihoods, and nature