Fair Trade
Fair trade isn't just about paying a decent price for a product so that the person who made it can earn a fair wage - though it certainly includes that. It's a social movement, one that has grown over recent decades out of work done by development organisations, campaign group and businesses and encompasses farmers growing raw commodities and craft producers creating finished products. Here's full the definition of "fair trade" we recognise:
"Fair Trade is a trading partnership based on dialogue, transparency and respect that seeks greater equity in international trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalised producers and workers - especially in the South.
Fair Trade organisations (backed by consumers) are engaged actively in supporting Fair Trade Clothing producers, raising awareness and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade."
This comes from FINE, an alliance made up of the Fairtrade Labelling Organisation, the International Fair Trade Association, the Network of European Worldshops and the European Fair Trade Association.
You'll see a number of external certifier fair trade logos on this site. Here's what they mean:
Links to Other Environmental and Social Concerns:
Links to Other Areas: Back to: Ethical Issues, Solutions and Certification
"Fair Trade is a trading partnership based on dialogue, transparency and respect that seeks greater equity in international trade. It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalised producers and workers - especially in the South.
Fair Trade organisations (backed by consumers) are engaged actively in supporting Fair Trade Clothing producers, raising awareness and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade."
This comes from FINE, an alliance made up of the Fairtrade Labelling Organisation, the International Fair Trade Association, the Network of European Worldshops and the European Fair Trade Association.
 | We use this logo for brands that work to the definition of Fair Trade that we have talked about above. |
You'll see a number of external certifier fair trade logos on this site. Here's what they mean:
 | Issued by IFAT, the International Fair Trade Association. Signifies that the brand is a member of IFAT and is implementing the IFAT Fair Trade standards and monitoring system. |
 | Issued by the Fairtrade Foundation. Certifies that the cotton farmers have met the Fairtrade Seed Cotton Standard and guarantees that they have received a better deal. |
 | The British Association for Fair Trade Shops (BAFTS) is a network of independent fair trade shops across the UK. BAFTS also recognises importers and wholesalers that meet their fair trade application and assessment process. |
Links to Other Environmental and Social Concerns:
- Alternative Fibres
- Recycled
- Organic
- Traditional Skills
- Locally Sourced
- Environmental Impact
- Charitable Projects
- Working Conditions and Labour Standards
- Progress Brands
Links to Other Areas: Back to: Ethical Issues, Solutions and Certification