Fairtrade: Is it really worth it?

37FOOD

Katy Skillen As budget-watching students, it’s likely that the majority of us know little more about Fairtrade produce than the fact that it’s expensive. However, is it worth a few extra pennies? Katy investigates. Wandering down the aisles of the Sainsbury’s in Lenton, your eyes may just be drawn to the price tag of your groceries and little else... but have you ever looked out for the Fairtrade symbol? Fairtrade is one of those sustainability buzzwords that we hear everywhere, and you probably associate it with bananas and coffee. But what does it even mean? Well, if a product has the Fairtrade logo on it this means that the people making that product are paid fair prices, working in decent conditions and producing food in a sustainable way that is kind to the planet and helps local communities. This is incredibly important when considering that most of this produce is sourced from poorly developed countries where farmers, particularly women, are often taken advantage of by big, profit-focused companies. By paying a little more, you are helping to fight social injustice which targets vulnerable farmers. Fairtrade is empowering these people: by receiving a fair price, farmers can make their own decisions to improve their lives and fulfil their potential. But what exactly is Fairtrade doing? Well, Fairtrade sets social, economic and environmental standards for companies, farmers and workers in a bid to build a more sustainable future. Fairtrade ensures that farmers are always paid a benchmark price, so that they are less vulnerable to volatile market prices. Importantly, this means that those working with Fairtrade can rely on a stable income, afford a higher standard of living and also invest in buying and growing more crops to develop their businesses. All these benefits mean that farmers have more money to spend on nutritious food. In this way, Fairtrade is helping to reduce food insecurity and poverty. Not only this, but Fairtrade produce is actually way better for the environment! Fairtrade’s standards for environmental protection include energy reduction, soil and water quality, pest management, biodiversity protection and prohibition of harmful chemicals. Fairtrade farmers are taught about environmentally friendly farming, benefitting both their health as well as the earth; for example, many have switched to using fewer pesticides. By supporting Fairtrade, you are helping tackle climate change and promoting long-term environmental sustainability. But as students on a very limited budget, is Fairtrade really worth it? In short, yes! Fairtrade is actually changing people’s lives. In areas where farmers are working with Fairtrade, communities are forming co-operative groups to negotiate higher prices for their products. This move has led to investments into scholarship programmes, schools for children, better housing, improved sanitation and medical facilities, protection for the environment and infrastructure programmes. But most importantly, Fairtrade is giving people a voice and purpose, so that they feel respected and valued in their work. Illustration &Page Design by Natasha Phang-Lee Logo courtesy of Fairtrade Foundation Fairtrade: As students on a very limited budget, is Fairtrade really worth it? In short, yes! By paying a little more, you are helping to fight social injustice which targets vulnerable farmers So next time you are doing your shopping, keep an eye out: there are over 4,500 Fairtrade products! Whether you’re getting a bottle of wine before you hit up Crisis, or a tub of Ben and Jerrys Ice-cream for a cosy night in, that small ethical choice will make a massive difference to thousands of lives. Is it worth it? “ “ “ “