In March, we are celebrating the 30th birthday of the Fairtrade Foundation who have made lasting impact on farmers and workers across the world. We are hosting a Fairtrade Fortnight to celebrate which will have a range of events and opportunities to get more involved in what we do*.
What is Fairtrade?
The Fairtrade Foundation describes it as a ‘system of certification aiming to ensure a set of standards are met in the production and supply of a product or ingredient.’ It is a system that enables producers in the developing world to receive better prices for their products (including items such as tea, coffee, cocoa, fruits, and wine)
Fairtrade also helps improve working conditions, providing funds to invest in better healthcare and education, in addition to improving farming practices, raising soil quality, and delivering wider sustainability outcomes.
Fairtrade at Greenwich
We are proud to be a Fairtrade University recognised by the Fairtrade Colleges and University Award. We work with our sustainability team, caterers, staff, and students to ensure we offer Fairtrade products in all our outlets whilst also providing opportunities to learn and get involved.
Our Fairtrade Policy aligns with our university targets of tackling climate change and Fairtrade standards support and promote farmers in developing more sustainable and environmentally friendly practices. For more information about Fairtrade and our previous fortnights, head over to our Sustainability Blog.
This month is also the SDG Teach-In! Fairtrade interlinks with numerous SDG goals such as #1 (No Poverty), #8 (Good Jobs & Economic Growth), #10 (Reduced Inequalities), #12 (Responsible Consumption) and #15 (Life on Land). If you are an educator, make your pledge today!
Get involved!
We have a couple events for students and staff to take part in. Have any questions related to our Fairtrade Fortnight or accreditation? Please contact Saada Elmi, s.elmi@gre.ac.uk.
*From September 2024, the Fairtrade Foundation will be permanently moving their Fairtrade Fortnights from February/March to September.
