Celebrating Fairtrade fortnight – Monday 27 February to Sunday 12 March 2023

"Our mission is to connect disadvantaged farmers and workers with consumers, promote fairer trading conditions, and empower farmers and workers to combat poverty, strengthen their position and take more control over their lives." Fairtrade Foundation

UWE Bristol and The Students' Union are celebrating Fairtrade Fortnight with a range of events and activities on campus; from promotions and discounts at our cafes and shops to a Fairtrade cookie cook-along and global cafe. During this time, we hope that you will take this opportunity to find out more about Fairtrade and to buy FT products at the university or further afield.

This article explains why and is written by Maria Martinez, ex Sustainable Development in Practice Masters student, prepared as part of her work-based learning placement with the Sustainability team. 5 Reasons why you should choose Fairtrade

Long gone are the times when grocery shopping was a simple affair. These days going to the supermarket or shop can feel like deep diving into a sea of brands, colors, price competitions, and a bewildering array of options. Not only that, but unless you are an expert researcher on supply chains and product production, you can never be too sure if a product was created in an ethical, sustainable manner.

What if I told you there is a certification that ensures all of the above plus more?

Here are 5 reasons why you should choose Fairtrade on your next trip to the shop.

1. Fairtrade is ethical / fairer pay and conditions.

Fairtrade takes farmers’ and workers’ interests into account, assuring their right to safer working conditions and fairer pay are met. Meanwhile, consumers have the guarantee that the products they purchase are ethically produced and of good quality.

1. Fairtrade promotes gender equality.

Fairtrade standards have zero tolerance of discriminating, sexually intimidating, abusive, or exploitative behaviors. Not only that, Fairtrade’s principles include providing women with opportunities they would otherwise not have for their personal development, from funding to education programs. For the 17% of farmers and 41% of workers who are women, this makes a big difference.

1. Fairtrade is environmentally friendly.

Fairtrade encourages farmers to switch to environmentally friendly practices and organic production. It bans the use of harmful agrochemicals, makes sure water is used sustainably and that farms are free from hazardous waste. Fairtrade also supports farmers to become more resilient in the midst of the climate crisis though the exchange of experience and good practice.

1. Fairtrade is easy to find.

From bananas, tea, coffee, sugar and wine to chocolate flowers and beauty products, from ALDI to Waitrose, local independent shops to the Co-Op supermarket, Fairtrade products are everywhere. Just look for the logo and you’ll know Fairtrade standards have been met.

1. Fairtrade is so much more!

Fairtrade is not just a certification, it’s a global movement. It not only ensures the empowerment of farmers thanks to the guaranteed minimum price, but it’s a whole network of support: driving awareness campaigns about unfair trade, setting up schools and educational programs for disadvantaged groups, lobbying for farmers’ rights, to just name a few of Fairtrade’s actions.   

To quote an excerpt from the Fairtrade Foundation’s website: “With Fairtrade you change the world a little bit every day.” So next time you need to do your groceries remember all the benefits and all the lives you are impacting thanks to Fairtrade.

Happy shopping!