Did you have a coffee today or maybe a banana? Are you wearing something made of cotton? If so, did you read the label before purchasing it?
Today is World Fair Trade day, and this year is about perseverance and solidarity. It’s also a good opportunity to say ‘thank you’ to farmers and workers for their hard work and the products they produce. You can choose to support them by using your purchasing power.
Most of these products originate from plantations in developing countries.
Now more than ever we need to take ethical consumer decisions and support trade models that put people and planet first, like fair trade.
Fair trade is based on dialogue, transparency and respect that contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading and working conditions for farmers and workers in the global South. Fair trade movement promotes environmentally friendly practices like improving soil and water quality, prohibiting harmful chemicals and encouraging biodiversity.
It’s not a charity, it is a successful ethical business model that you can support by choosing certified products.
Watch this short 12-minutes film called The Story of Chocolate: Unwrapping the Bar that explains how cocoa from plantations in West Africa makes its way to our tables. It demonstrates the benefits fair trade brings by giving a voice to those involved in cooperatives.
In the UAE you can find fair trade products in Marks and Spencer shops, the independent locally owned RAW coffee company and in the Little Fair Trade online shop.
Below are some logos that you might find on certified products, read more by clicking on each of them.
Fairtrade is a simple way to make a difference to the lives of the people who grow the things we love. Make a difference today, and shop fair trade.
Ewa Karolewska – Project Leader at Goumbook
