Fair trade: changing the world one purchase at a time
Bananas, cacao, coffee . . . did you know that these everyday items have the power to change the lives of agricultural workers in southern countries? In fact, by opting for fair trade products, you’re helping to protect these workers’ rights, as well as helping the environment. It’s an ethical way of consuming and making a difference not only in the lives of small-scale farmers, but also in the lives of their families and communities.
Next time you’re at an IGA store, look for the Fairtrade-certified label on items such as bananas, chocolate, tea, or coffee. By filling your cart with these products, you’ll be doing your part in making our planet a better, more sustainable place to live.
What exactly is fair trade?
Fair trade is a set of international standards that take into account the economical, social, and environmental rights of small-scale farmers and their communities. Applying fair trade standards in farming communities, notably in southern countries, means encouraging sustainable development within these communities. As a result, marginalized farmers (meaning those excluded from conventional markets) can make a dignified living from their trade, all while directly contributing to social progress, whether by raising awareness or educating others on the importance of sustainable production methods.
Thus, fair trade products (designated by the Fairtrade-certified label) are committed to respecting the following principles:
- No forced labour and no child labour
- Respect of biodiversity
- Prohibited from using dangerous substances
- A fair price for the farmers
- Good working conditions
- Ecological management of waste and packaging
- Gender equality among workers
Benefits for the farmers
1. Economic solidarity
Fair trade allows small-scale farmers to grow their business by developing long-term commercial partnerships with exporters. By fixing a minimum price that takes into account actual production costs, fair trade farmers receive an assured and stable income. Plus, thanks to additional funds generated by the Fairtrade Premium, these same farmers can practice higher quality agriculture and adopt more sustainable production methods. These funds are also used to establish co-ops, which are vital to local development.
2. The power of co-ops
One of the fair trade market’s major strengths is being able to create co-operatives that bring about social change. By bringing them together, co-ops allow farmers to access training programs to develop their skills. They also give them better negotiating power and more control over their future. The benefit of the Fairtrade Premium? Being able to invest in projects that improve local communities (education, health, housing, access to clean drinking water). Workers are also protected by fair standards, including improved working, health, and safety conditions, and the possibility of unionizing.
3. Protecting the environment
Fair trade encourages efficient management of natural resources, such as protecting water and soils, and limiting the use of harmful chemical products. It also promotes organic farming, reducing pollution levels thanks to fewer pesticides and allowing farmers to access new markets. To better understand these environmental issues, several training programs are offered to farmers, focussing on farming best practices, the impacts of climate change, and managing environmental resources. Farmers also have access to financial support and expertise to help them implement the necessary measures to protect the environment.
As a consumer, you too have the power to change the lives of small-scale farmers in southern countries, simply by opting for fair trade products. A simple action that lets workers oversee their own development and ensures they get access to good working conditions and fair income.
Discover how IGA is involved in fair trade.