Fair Trade and the Earth

Fair Trade encourages environmentally sustainability by educating producers to make wiser use of resources. In the craft world, this means using more local and natural materials instead of imported synthetics, and healthier production methods to avoid dangerous chemicals. But the impact of Fair Trade on the planet is even greater in relation to food production. For example, it provides alternatives to tree cutting for cattle farming in the Amazon with shade grown organic coffee or cocoa while also fostering biodiversity. Plus, as trends in climate change reach new heights, Fair Traders are recognizing that some of the poorest regions of the world will be the most affected by droughts and flooding, and so are working to foster environmental education and preservation.