Fair Trade Helps

Until the past few years it has often seemed that “fair trade” and “green”  were different issues with little connection. But now that “Socially Responsible” and “Green” are all the rage among companies from wall street to main street, what’s a normal person to do? Who has three weeks to research every purchase? How do you spot green washing?

Well here are a few hints.

• Does the store you are shopping in have a mission you believe in? I used to believe advertisements, but now I put more faith in the store. I trust the buyers at locally owned fair trade stores, green connections and organic food co-ops more than I do the corporate buyers.
• Search for local stores at The Fair Trade Federation.
• Look for third parties on the label. Organic and fair trade certification are available for more and more food products every day. Thank the hard working fair trade coffee people for that. For toys,  gifts and home decor, fair trade certification does NOT exist because these items are not commodities.  But Fair Trade Federation members do undergo an application and screening processes and you can find many great gifts sourced from FTF members.
• Look for natural materials, minimal packaging and recycled content.
• Read the label. Why is it better than the item on the next shelf? What percentage of the companies products help people or the planet?
• Purchases at local thrift stores save you money, keep stuff out of the waste stream, and usually support local causes.