Fairtrade and Sustainability
What is Fairtrade?
The principles of Fairtrade include better prices, decent working conditions, local sustainability, and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers globally, with a particular focus on lower-income countries.
By requiring companies to pay sustainable prices (which must never fall lower than the market price), Fairtrade addresses the injustices of conventional trade, which typically discriminates against producers from low-income countries.
Fairtrade empowers producers by enabling them to improve their position and have more control over their lives.
What are Fairtrade Standards?
Fairtrade standards comprise minimum requirements and progress requirements; both the baseline expectations that producers must meet and the ongoing goals for further enhancements, fostering continuous progress and positive change within the Fairtrade system.
The minimum requirements encompass social, economic, and environmental criteria that producers must fulfil in order to receive Fairtrade certification. These criteria ensure that certain standards are met in terms of worker welfare, fair wages, safe working conditions, and sustainable farming practices.
In addition to the minimum requirements, Fairtrade also sets progress requirements. These requirements aim to encourage continuous improvement in the organizational structure and efficiency of farmers' groups or the well-being and rights of workers employed on larger estates.
Fairtrade System
There are the 10 Principles of Fairtrade that guide fair trade practices set by The World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO) - a global network of organisations dedicated to promoting fair trade.
By adhering to these principles, WFTO and its members contribute to a fairer and more sustainable global trade system that benefits marginalized producers and respects human rights.
Does Fairtrade mean Sustainable Trade?
What are some of the foundations of sustainability?
Standard of living: ensuring that individuals and communities have access to an adequate standard of living, including basic needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare.
Stronger organisations / businesses of farmers groups: enhancing their capacity to negotiate fair prices, improve production practices, and participate effectively in value chains. Stronger farmers' groups contribute to sustainable agriculture, rural development, and equitable distribution of resources.
Decent work: workers' rights, fair wages, safe working conditions, and social protection.
Environmental protection and climate change adaptation: promoting sustainable practices and supporting farmers and workers in adapting to the challenges posed by climate change.
