This control was exerted via both forceful and non-forceful means. It created a system of oppression, institutionalised racism, and exploitation. Formal colonialism has ended. But the specter of it lingers on in the continued exploitation of the South by, among others, multinational corporations.
Economic relations between producer and purchaser often remain far from equal or fair. Low production costs in the developing world allow them to do just that. This, invariably, comes at a cost to the societies which are affected by such trade agreements. Seeking to re-address this imbalance, fair trade as a movement and Fairtrade the organisation both seek to end many of the intermediaries in global supply chains.
This means more profits to those who produce goods, but also, more control. Sustainable trade is not only about paying the right amount of money to Fairtrade farmers. And, hopefully, eventual freedom from hegemonic systems. The once-humble avocado has been lifted to lofty heights of late. Incredibly, avocado street food pop-ups and avocado-only restaurants are now a thing. On the surface this seems fine, avos are healthy, nutritious, and delicious.
Dig a little deeper though and the dialogue becomes decidedly muddier. Cartels have taken to extorting and controlling local farmers. The more you know about fair trade, the more power you hold as a consumer. Making good shopping decisions is just the beginning — you can influence companies and governments, too.
What is the definition of fair trade? What happens without fair trade? What is the difference between fair trade and Fairtrade? How can I distinguish between fair trade and Fairtrade labels? Are all fair trade products certified? How does World Vision champion fair trade? How does World Vision press the Canadian government to adopt fair trade principles? What are the criticisms of fair trade? How can I buy fair trade products like tea and chocolate now? The fair trade definition in the dictionary is very basic.
They now have a say in how their businesses run. Photo: Dara Chhim But most organizations describe fair trade as more of a movement than a concept. Fair trade contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to marginalized producers and workers Fair trade fuels sustainable development by helping secure the rights of workers. Their year-old son must also earn, rather than building a brighter future in school.
Photo: Tiatamjen Jamir When fair trade is absent, lives can be destroyed. Children and women in developing countries are often the primary victims. Their pay is usually far lower. This gives them an opportunity to improve their lives and plan for their future. Farmers receive a stable price even when the market drops. Workers are guaranteed a good wage and safe working conditions. Fairtrade groups also encourage sustainable agriculture and other practices that benefit the producers in the long term.
We can participate in many simple ways that are of benefit to us and the farmers who grow the crops. Fairtrade offers consumers the opportunity to buy ethically. When you buy Fairtrade products, you are purchasing products that have been produced without slave labour or in sweatshops.
It gives the consumer the knowledge that their product was produced safely and fairly. Buying Fairtrade products also benefits the farmers and workers immensely. It means they will have a stable income. Our actions can do a lot. We all have a voice. Purchasing Fairtrade items regularly will hopefully force big companies to do the same and participate in the Fairtrade program. Continually monitor the impact they have on the environment and implement ways to keep on reducing it.
Fairtrade coffee benefits farmers and communities Coffee farmers in Costa Rica have invested in ovens fuelled by the discarded coffee husks of the very beans they are roasting.
This has reduced the number of trees cut down for firewood. Fairtrade bans child labour Fairtrade means zero-tolerance of child labour, and the organisation works to bring an end to such practices. More Fairtrade benefits Fairtrade provides access to, and oversees, loans to help producers invest.
For example the UCA cooperative took out a loan to construct a drying mill for its coffee. The mill is now paying back the loan that built it and reducing processing costs. Fairtrade can improve food security which is closely linked to economic growth, stable incomes and reduced risk and vulnerability.
If a farmer has a better income it means he or she has more money to buy food and more money to invest in growing more crops. Fairtrade gives shoppers the opportunity to live and shop according to their principles and take action to support farmers and their families.
Fairtrade provides consumers with an opportunity to connect with the people who grow the produce we enjoy and need. Did you know? There are 4, Fairtrade certified products for sale in the UK, so it's well worth shopping around. Ecuador and Costa Rica traditionally earn around 9 and 8 per cent respectively of their total export earnings from bananas alone.
Sustainable living.
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