An alternative way to do business that empowers global communities based on equity, justice, transparency, authentic partnership and sustainability.
Artisans, farmers and workers around the world are exploited and marginalized on a daily basis. Whether it is because of the amount they are paid, the terrible working conditions they experience or problems of forced labor that commonly occur under the traditional model of trade, often no opportunities exist to earn a living wage to support one’s family. Fair trade is an alternative way to do business in the international marketplace and is based on the principles of equity, justice, respect, transparency, authentic partnership and sustainability. It is a type of trading relationship that secures the rights of marginalized producers and workers in communities around the world.
Fair trade benefits both producers and consumers by bringing only the highest quality products to market while at the same time supporting the livelihood of the artisans and farmers.
So why do we at Four Corners of the World believe so strongly in fair trade?
- A Fair Wage
Workers receive a fair price for their products without fear of exploitation or forced child labor. Fair trade means just working conditions. - Quality Products
By receiving a fair price for their products, fair trade producers can avoid cost-cutting practices that sacrifice quality. Fair trade results in exceptional products. - Diversity
For artisans, making handcrafts is a way to pass on their skills and culture to future generations. Fair trade produces and maintains cultural diversity. - Environmental Care
The environment is not adversely affected by pollution, the destruction of rainforests, or toxic dumping. Fair trade means sound ecology. - Education
Promote education about fair trade, globalization, sweatshops, workers’ rights, and the non-poverty wage. Fair trade is human rights education. - Conscientious Consumerism
Be a consumer who knows where the items they buy come from and under what circumstances. Fair trade produces conscientious consumers. - Social Justice Advocacy & Activism
Create a model in our community which proves that social justice techniques can be successfully applied to the marketplace. Fair trade provides an outlet for positive social activism. - Peace
By partnering with workers around the world, we are able to realize the connectedness and oneness of all humanity. Fair trade is a necessary step toward world peace.
Just think, every time you purchase an item that is fair trade, you are making a choice to help build a world that empowers the most marginalized producers and values the future of our planet.
For additional resources on fair trade, we encourage you to visit the following sites.
- Fair Trade Resource Network
Fair Trade Resource Network is an information hub designed to grow the fair trade movement. together, we can create a market that values the people who make the food we eat and the goods we use. - Fair Trade Federation
The Fair Trade Federation (FTF) is the trade association that strengthens and promotes North American organizations fully committed to fair trade. Four Corners is a proud member! www.fairtradefederation.org Fair Trade USA Fair Trade USA, a nonprofit 501(c)3 organization, is the leading third-party certifier of Fair Trade products in the United States. - World Fair Trade Organization
The World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO) is the global representative body of over 450 members committed to 100% Fair Trade. It is the only global network whose members represent the Fair Trade chain from production to sale. - Fairtrade International
Fairtrade International is the organization that coordinates Fairtrade labelling at an international level. From our offices, in Bonn, Germany, we set international Fairtrade standards, organize support for producers around the world, develop global Fairtrade strategy, and promote trade justice internationally.