New To Fair Trade? Start Here.
Do you walk past that cute fair trade store in your town all the time and wonder what it's all about? Maybe you've even shopped there, but still aren't sure what they do. By the end of this, you'll know the basics of fair trade, why it matters, and have 3 easy steps to get started.
What is fair trade?
Fair trade is a way of doing business that puts the people who make the products at the center, rather than an afterthought. Next to high-quality, handmade products, priority number one is paying people fairly, providing a safe work environment, and ensuring absolutely no child or slave labor. That's it!
How can I trust that something is fair trade?
Many businesses and brands, like Latitudes Fair Trade, are verified by the Fair Trade Federation (FTF). This verification is a trust symbol that shows they follow the strict standards of the FTF. It's always important to do your own research as well. Just like organic certifications, there are many businesses that follow the regulations of fair trade, but can't afford the fee of applying to be a member of the FTF.
Why does fair trade matter?
Long story short, a lot of workers are suffering. Slavery, child labor, trafficking, underpaid factory work, and dangerous conditions are still common. Fair trade matters because it puts a stop to these bad practices. When we shop, it's our job to let brands know we don't like people being treated unethically. Shopping fair trade is a great way to do that.
3 Easy Steps To Support Fair Trade
1. Don't overhaul, just swap as you go.
Don't let the doom and gloom get to you. Throwing out everything you own and buying all brand new, even from a fair trade store, isn't the answer. Don't make unnecessary waste. It's better to use what you have and then get the better option when you need it.
For example, that $5 box of dryer sheets that's only halfway gone can still do its job! When you run out, head to your local fair trade store and pick up some dryer balls. They do the same job without the waste and last for hundreds of washes before you have to replace them.
2. Doing what you can is better than doing nothing.
Even choosing fair trade for just one item makes a difference. Don't feel like you need to have fair trade everything to make an impact. Try out a fair trade snack, replace your worn-out dish towel, or choose fair trade when gift shopping. Even a small choice still creates demand for a product and provides safe work for an artisan. That's not small.
3. Keep learning and share when you do.
This is seriously just the tip of the iceberg. It's important to look into the brands you like and see how their products are made. Who makes them? Where? Are they paid a living wage, or do they work outrageous hours for little pay? When something is really, really cheap, ask how? We want more brands to be transparent about what they pay their artisans and how they are treated. The more you know, the more businesses have to answer to.
Sharing what you learn brings more people to the cause and helps raise awareness. The more people who buy just one fair trade item, the bigger that one gets. You create demand. When your friends shop too, that creates more demand, and suddenly, there are more jobs for artisans in well-paying, safe businesses. You really make a difference.
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Ready to learn more?
Check out these websites and articles to learn more!
The 9 Principles of Fair Trade
How Fair Trade Stores Source Their Products
The World Fair Trade Organization