Fairtrade logoWhat is Fairtrade?

Fairtrade is a method of trading which guarantees a better deal for producers in the developing world.  They are paid a stable price which covers their production costs and a premium that they can invest in the business or in social and environmental schemes for the wider community.

The now familiar Fairtrade Mark is an independent consumer label displayed on Fairtrade products and guarantees that those involved in its production have been paid fairly.  There are now over 1,000 different products carrying the Fairtrade Mark.  To find out more, visit the Fairtrade Foundation website.

How is Bath and North East Somerset involved?

The Fairtrade Foundation gives official accreditation to communities and organisations that meet certain goals to confirm their commitment to Fairtrade.

The communities in Bath and North East Somerset that have Fairtrade Accreditation are Bath; Keynsham; Saltford and Chew Magna.  The accreditations need to be renewed periodically to ensure that progress in supporting Fairtrade is achieved.

One criteria is for the local council to pass a resolution to support Fairtrade and agree to serve Fairtrade products at meetings etc.  This was passed by Bath and North East Somerset Council in 2003.

There are currently Fairtrade Groups for Keynsham; Saltford and Chew Magna.

The area is also represented on the South West Fairtrade network, which has a website giving contact details for local groups as well as directories of retailers selling Fairtrade products.


How Can I Get Involved?

As an individual

The simplest way is to make a commitment to buy more Fairtrade products and ask your favourite retailers to stock more Fairtrade goods.  If you would like to get more actively involved, please join one of the local groups as they will always welcome more members and support.

As a business 

A retailer may like to think about offering more Fairtrade products for sale; offices and other organisations might like to provide Fairtrade refreshments for staff and clients or use Fairtrade office supplies.  The South West Purchasing Guide is available to help you identify local suppliers.

If you sell Fairtrade (and/or local) products and are not listed on the South West Fairtrade website, please let us know.

As a place of worship, school, college or university

It is possible for your organisation to receive its own official accreditation from the Fairtrade Foundation by meeting just a few goals.  Further information is available from them - click on the links to find out more:-

 

South West Fairtrade Regional Co-ordinator

The Fairtrade Foundation has appointed a regional co-ordinator for the South West.  Her name is Jenny Foster and she can be contacted via E-mail to: bristolfairtradenetwork@gmail.com or by calling 0117 922 4916.
 
 

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