The Football Association of Wales (FAW) has unveiled a pioneering environmental initiative at its headquarters, introducing a colony of 20,000 female honeybees to mark the milestone of reaching 20,000 registered female members across Wales.
The initiative aligns with the FAW’s broader sustainability and inclusion strategy, positioning the organisation as a progressive leader both on and off the pitch. By combining environmental responsibility with the continued advancement of women’s and girls’ football, the FAW said it was reinforcing its long-term commitment to community impact, biodiversity, and sustainable growth.
The bespoke beehive, painted in official FAW team colours, symbolises the ambitions of the Our Wales: For Her strategy — designed to create a game where women and girls feel they belong, are visible, and are supported to thrive at every level.
Installed at FAW headquarters in Hensol, the beehive is expected to support the pollination of millions of plants and flowers across the surrounding area each year. Beyond its symbolic value, the initiative will make a tangible contribution to local biodiversity, strengthening ecosystems and reinforcing the FAW’s commitment to environmental stewardship.
The programme has been delivered in partnership with Bee1, specialists in corporate biodiversity initiatives.
Mark Douglas, founder of Bee1, said:
“Bees are a powerful symbol of gender equality and collective success. They are a highly efficient species led almost entirely by females, working collaboratively for the good of the whole community. By introducing this colony at FAW headquarters, we are not only celebrating the remarkable growth of women’s and girls’ football in Wales, but also taking meaningful action to support local biodiversity and create a lasting environmental legacy.”
Jason Webber, Senior EDI & Sustainability Manager at the FAW, said:
“Reaching 20,000 registered female members across Wales is a fantastic milestone for Welsh football, and it is fitting that we mark it with an initiative that reflects our wider values. At the Football Association of Wales, sustainability is central to our long-term strategy, and we are committed to playing an active role in protecting and enhancing biodiversity.
“Introducing this bee colony at our headquarters in Hensol is a small but meaningful step in supporting nature and strengthening local ecosystems. It also creates a positive connection with nature for our staff, which can support wellbeing and mental health.
“Through initiatives like this, we want Welsh football to make a positive contribution not only to our game and communities, but also to the environment.”
