Fair trade is an alternative way to doing business that promotes equal, sustainable relationships between consumers and producers. This includes paying fair wages in local communities, engaging in environmentally sustainable practices, and promoting health working conditions. These trading partnerships are based on relationships of mutual respect. In North America, there are many fair trade products we can buy, including crafts, clothing, jewelry, coffee, bananas and chocolate. How can buying fair trade help? Buying fair trade can actually change the lives of some of the world's poorest people. Workers earn greater incomes for their labor and the returns are often invested in community projects, such as health clinics, education and child care. |