You are probably asking yourself….. What is Fairtrade? What are Fairtrade standards How did it all start? What is the Fairtrade mark? What are the benefits?

What is Fairtrade? Fairtrade does what it says on the label; it guarantees a better deal to producers in the developing world. Too many farmers in the developing world have to contend with fluctuating prices that may not even cover what it costs to produce their crop. So Fairtrade can make a big impact on their day-to-day life. And on their future and that of their family.

So how did it all start? Products like coffee, tea and chocolate, that we in the north have come to depend on, are produced in the warmer climates of the south. The prices paid for these products have not risen as much as the prices of fertilisers, pesticides and machinery (imported from the rich countries). As a result many of the people who grow these crops are having to work harder and longer for less money.

Development agencies recognised the important role that consumers could play to improve the situation for producers. By buying direct from farmers at better prices and helping to strengthen their organisations the charities offered consumers the opportunity to buy products which were bought on the basis of a fair trade.

Fairtrade Labelling Organisations (FLO) International. The Fairtrade Mark All products carrying the FAIRTRADE Mark meet standards set by the international umbrella body called Fairtrade Labelling Organisations (FLO) International.

Internationally-agreed Fairtrade standards exist for the following products and in each category there is a list of approved producers. Coffee  Tea  Cocoa Honey Bananas Mangoes Orange Juice Sugar

In 1994, the value of Fairtrade products at the checkout was £2 In 1994, the value of Fairtrade products at the checkout was £2.75 million; now, it has reached £63 million – meaning £2.00 is spend on Fairtrade products each second. Fairtrade ground coffee now has more than 14% of the UK ground coffee market.

So how Can you help? Buy products that display the Fair Trade Mark Take part in Fair Trade Fortnight at school Stay informed Spread the word

Many new Fair Trade books are available in the STBH Library You May want to take a look at these: www.fairtrade.org.uk www.traidcraftshop.co.uk www.cafedirect.co.uk www.divinechocolate.com www.comicrelief.org.uk Many new Fair Trade books are available in the STBH Library

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