Fair Trade
What does it mean? The international system of Fair Trade is structured to provide the following outcomes for farmers and workers in developing countries: Fair compensation for their products and labour Sustainable environment practices Improved social services Investment in local economic infrastructure
The principles: Producers receive a fair price to earn a “living wage” Forced labour & exploitive child labour are not allowed Buyers and producers trade under direct long-term relationships Sustainable production techniques are strongly encouraged (environmental protection)
The principles: Working conditions are safe and healthy Equal employment opportunities are provided for all (gender equality) All aspects of trade & production are open to public scrutiny Development of the producers’ independence
CONSUMER BENEFITS OF FAIR TRADE: Options in purchasing according to one’s principals, morals and values Products of superior quality Assurance of the ethical source of food & non-food purchases
ENVIRONMENTAL BENEFITS OF FAIR TRADE: Organic farming methods which avoid pollutants, pesticides & herbicides Encouragement to farmers to diversify their crops
Fair Trade products currently available: Cocoa Coffee Cotton Flowers Fruit Gold Grains (Rice & Quinoa) Spices and Herbs Nuts and Oils (Shea Butter and Olive Oil) Sports Balls Sugar Tea Wine