As Western consumers, we are constantly overwhelmed with advertisements telling us what to buy, when to buy, how to buy and how much to pay. In the chaos, we may have heard that buying fair trade products is a good thing to do . . . but what exactly is fair trade and who does it help?
Fair Trade is an alternative way to doing business that promotes equal, sustainable relationships between consumers and producers. This includes paying fair wages in local communities, engaging in environmentally sustainable practices, and promoting health working conditions. These trading partnerships are based on relationships of mutual respect. In North America, there are many fair trade products we can buy, including crafts, clothing, jewelry, coffee, bananas and chocolate. The Fair Trade Federation (FTF) is an association of businesses and organizations who are fully committed to fair trade. FTF strengthens the capacity of its members, encourages the exchange of best practices, and raises awareness about the importance of choosing fairly traded products and supporting businesses committed to fair trade principles. Buying fair trade can actually change the lives of some of the world's poorest people. Workers earn greater incomes for their labor and the returns are often invested in community projects, such as health clinics, education and child care. Fair trade cooperatives are working to create Sustainable Good in poor communities, To read stories about how Outreach International is also working to create Sustainable Good, click here!