Fair Trade: What, Why, & Where

We are all aware of the endless issues we face socially, economically, and environmentally in our world today. It is very easy to become overwhelmed and in response throw up our hands and say, "what can I do, as one person, that will make a difference." We can set our individual intention to embark on a journey of empowerment and share this journey with our community, so that we may step forward knowing that we can and do make a difference both individually and as a collective community.

A good first stop on this journey is Fair Trade. I start my day, as many of you likely do, with a good 'ol cup o'Joe. The sound of the beans grinding, the sweet aroma of it brewing, the steam rising off my foaming soy, and the delicious, invigorating first taste are such fundamental necessities to a day starting off just right. Our simple daily rituals, such as enjoying a cup of coffee, can have significant implications, socially, economically, and environmentally.

Americans consume one-fifth of the world's coffee, making our country the largest consumer of coffee in the world. Coffee is the United States largest food import and the world's second most valuable traded commodity, behind only petroleum.

Fair Trade: What is it?

Fair Trade is a world-wide collaborative system to ensure producers receive a fair price and a living wage for their commodity. Fair Trade is not exclusive to coffee, and continues to expand its reach.

The following are highlights cited on Global Exchange regarding Fair Trade

• Forced labor and exploitative child labor are not allowed

• Buyers and producers trade under direct long-term relationships

• Producers have access to financial and technical assistance

• Sustainable production techniques are encouraged

• Working conditions are healthy and safe

• Equal employment opportunities are provided for all

• All aspects of trade and production are open to public accountability

Fair Trade: Why?

Understanding the significance of your purchase power allows you to wield it with ethical intention, that can have far-reaching results. When you choose Fair Trade coffee you are ensuring that participating farmers receive a living wage, and that they are provided loans and assistance with transitioning to organic farming. Coffee purchasers must pledge to pay a minimum of $1.26 per/pound for Fair Trade coffee beans. Without Fair Trade guarantees, farmers have been known to not only go into poverty, but to take their children out of school to work on the farms. One cup of coffee costs us more than the farmers get per pound! When you choose that cup of coffee, consider the sustainability of that purchase for the grower and for our environment.

Fair Trade: Where can I use my purchasing power? Look for the Fair Trade sign on coffee bags and other products that you know are imported. If you can't find them, start asking businesses if they can start carrying Fair Trade products. Our money makes businesses successful so it makes sense to support sustainable business practices.