Fairtrade Chic

Since Fairtrade has grown from being a grassrote movement to having the backing of some of the major companies in the world, it has become a big business in itself. The awareness of fairtrade products such as coffee has increased the consumers perception of fairtrade products and what they do for third world farmers. One question that i hear more and more though, is Fairtrade the only way to ensure the producers in third world countries get a fair price and good working conditions?

The co-op that is the Fairtrade organization ensures that the member farmers receive a good price for their products, and help with improving their crops, ensuring labour is treated correctly etc. However it is also dangerous to educate the consumer that a product has to have the Fairtrade mark to be a fairly traded product.

it is important that the consumer looks into the ethical policies of the company selling the products, and if possible research independent websites etc for information about their credentials before making a decision. Far to often we see professional activists targeting companies that do support fair trade, just not through the Fairtrade organization necessarily. We have seen examples before where companies deal directly with the farmers while giving them a fair market price as well as helping them develop their production.

It is important that we as consumers make up our own mind when making a purchase, and don’t put all our faith in one brand/symbol. Make informed choices is my opinion.

(No Ratings Yet)

 Loading …