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What is fair trade? -

Fair trade applies to commercial operations that aim to support and improve the quality of life of workers and producers, as well as protecting the environment.

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A fair wage -

This often involves establishing direct links between small-scale producers in developing countries, and fair trade organizations (FTOs) in Western countries.

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Spotlight on global injustices -

Fair trade organizations work to shed spotlight on unjust international trade practices, highlighting problems such as child labor and insufficient pay.

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A global concern -

Modern-day fair trade practices were shaped in the years following World War II, and the fair trade movement has consistently gained attention and support over the decades, helping entire countries and communities in the process.

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What's in a name? -

The words "fair trade" and "Fairtrade" don't mean exactly the same thing. The Fairtrade logo can only be used by organizations, brands, and products that are part of the Fairtrade International system and adhere to its rules and values.

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Look for the logo -

"Fair trade" is not a protected term, and almost any seller could apply it to their products. If in doubt, look for the globally-recognized Fairtrade logo.

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Other certifications -

In the US, Fair Trade USA certifies products according to criteria including eco-friendly practices. Fair Trade America is another reputable source of certification.

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Food for thought -

Most people associate fair trade products with imports such as coffee, sugar, and bananas, but it's a more wide-reaching term that can cover everything from your morning caffeine boost to your clothing, beauty, and fashion choices.

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Who benefits? -

Fair trade principles don't only cover wages–the movement also works to ensure safe working conditions, no forced labor or child labor, and the elimination of harmful chemicals.

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Where does your coffee come from? -

Global economic conditions might not be the first thing on your mind when you reach for that all-important morning coffee, but your newly-conscious lifestyle should begin at breakfast: check the label to make sure your coffee gets the fair trade seal of approval.

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What's the tea? -

If you're more of a tea person than a coffee person, the same rules apply. Workers and producers on many tea plantations in India, East Africa, and other tea-producing regions often work long hours for unfairly low wages.

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Spilling the tea -

Ethical tea companies such as Clipper (the UK's first Fairtrade tea company in 1994) ensure a fair deal for pickers and producers, so you can sip your tea with a clear conscience.

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Sugar supplies -

Take sugar in your tea or coffee? You should be checking that it's fair trade, too. Reputable fair trade organizations will work with small-scale sugar cane farmers to ensure they are not exploited physically or financially.

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Seafood ethics -

Documentaries such as 'Seaspiracy' (2021) have shone a harsh light on the international seafood industry, and 'seafood slavery' is an all-too-real issue. Try to buy locally-sourced, sustainable fish from small, independent vendors.

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Check before you buy -

It doesn't have to take a huge amount of money to make sure you know where the contents of your food cupboards are coming from. Support small local vendors at fresh produce markets, and look for fair trade credentials on imports and packaged food.

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Ask about ingredients -

There's no need to stop at your own supplies, either. When ordering takeout, ask about the origins of your food. Asking about fair trade ingredients can encourage your favorite local delivery place to take it seriously.

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Ethical buying is beautiful -

Fair trade doesn't stop at food and drinks. In tandem with a rise in organic and vegan beauty and skin care products, recent years have seen the industry embrace fair trade ethics.

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Ask for more -

Increased demand leads to increase supply. If your favorite beauty brands don't display fair trade credentials, it's worth contacting them to ask why not–especially if they make use of farmed ingredients such as sugar and coconut oil.

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Clothing considerations -

Look at your clothing labels, too. 'Fast fashion' has been shown to be hugely detrimental to the planet and to workers, so look for fair trade certification, or, better still, buy from independent local producers.

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What are you wearing? -

The temptation to hit the high street (or the internet) with credit card in hand can be strong, but the true cost to people and planet should make you think twice. Your retail therapy will feel all the better if you seek out thrift stores, charity shops, and small local stores stocking their own designs.

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Let's drink to that! -

Fair trade wine is another growth area, and you might be surprised by the range of options at your supermarket or wine shop. If you're lucky enough to have local wineries, don't be afraid to ask about their production practices.

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Involve the family -

Encourage family members to make fair trade a priority, too. Challenge the family to help you regularly cook meals using only fair trade sources, and see if they think it tastes better!

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Look at a map -

It might sound simple, but looking at a map to see where your food, drinks, and clothing come from can make you think. Considering lifestyles and working practices in those countries might make you reconsider buying non-fair trade options.

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Fair trade travel -

Your fair trade principals can be applied to thinking about your next break, too. It can be as simple as booking a small, family-run guest house and using independent local tour operators.

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Do your homework -

If you decide to book a guest house or bed and breakfast, do your research ahead of time and ask if they will supply fair trade food and drinks at breakfast. Your socially-conscious coffee doesn't have to stop at home!

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Fair trade tourism -

Some countries in Africa, Asia, Central America, and South America offer designated fair trade breaks, which consider eco-friendly credentials as well as impact on local communities.

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Research, research, research -

It's much easier to buy a guaranteed fair trade banana than to ensure your travel plans will be genuinely beneficial to a country or community. If a vacation is branded as 'fair trade,' be sure to find out what that means in practice.

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Read all about it -

To take a deeper dive into the world of fair trade, you might want to look into some of the books on the subject. John Bowes' 'The Fair Trade Revolution' might make it to the top of your reading list.

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Spread the word -

Ultimately, fair trade principles aim to make the world a fairer place for everybody, while protecting our global environment. Don't be afraid to boast about your positive lifestyle choices–it might just encourage others to get on board!

Sources: (HuffPost) (Fairtrade America) (NBC)

See also: Is cutting out meat really better for you?

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