The people at Big Dipper Wax Works of Seattle are crazy about honey bees, and for many good reasons. Aside from being keystone species that pollinate a number of plants including the fruits and vegetables we consume, these hard-working insects produce such miraculous substances as beeswax honey, propolis, royal jelly, and bee pollen. Bees have complex codes of communication, are expert engineers, and master navigators. It is no wonder that Big Dipper has such respect for the labor and amazing biology of the humble bee. This ethic permeates the business and is evident in the care and consideration they take when producing their candles.

Big Dipper sources its wax from beekeepers throughout the Pacific Northwest where crops contain the lowest levels of pesticides possible. The wax Big Dipper uses is filtered by a natural clay process that removes impurities while retaining color and aroma. Depending on the flowers the bees are pollinating, the candles can range in color from bright gold to dark brown. Beeswax is naturally dripless and smokeless, allowing for a clean burn that produces negative ions that help to clear the air, instigate serotonin production, increase oxygen flow to the brain, and regulate the endocrine glands. All dyes are eco-friendly and cruelty-free.

Like a good hive, the Big Dipper Wax Works values a commitment to the community and the environment. As  Green America Approved Business, the company values social responsibility and ecological awareness. A total of 10% of net profits from candle sales are donated to promote sustainable beekeeping and support local schools, community health and research organizations, animal shelters, and sports teams. All of the materials used in making the candles are locally sourced, biodegradable and undergo no chemical processing. Big Dipper recycles and reuses shipping materials, uses minimal packaging that is certified by the Forest Stewardship Council, encourages their customers to reuse their glass and tin containers by selling bulk refills, and composts organic matter.

Bambu Batu is proud to carry Big Dipper’s candles! Choose from tapers, tea lights, pillars and garden candles that come with seeds and biodegradable pots! Give the gift of warmth and light this holiday season with beeswax candles from a great company with a clean conscience.

2020 Update: Bambu Batu’s retail store is no longer open and we no longer sell Big Dipper candles, but we heartily endorse them. Shop for Big Dipper Beeswax Candles now at Amazon.

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