As we celebrate World Fair Trade Day, we think of our friends and manufacturers in India who are in the midst of disruption caused by COVID-19. The pandemic has threatened vulnerable garment workers around the world, and for us, this is a time when respecting people and our planet has never been more pertinent.
The importance of choosing fair trade and organic cotton becomes clear when we look at how this choice contributes to the 17 United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.
1
No Poverty
Organic cotton farming means farmers spend less on inputs, and Fairtrade ensures farmers receive the best price for their cotton, which acts as a safety net if prices crash.
2
Zero Hunger
Organic cotton is grown alongside food crops to feed farmer communities and promote soil fertility and biodiversity.
3
Good Health & Wellbeing
Organic cotton farmers are not exposed to toxic chemicals, and Fairtrade is committed to the protection of workers' rights.
4
Quality Education
Fairtrade invests in educating on best farming practices and farmers receive a premium each season to be used on programs in their community.
5
Gender Equality
Fairtrade standards prohibit gender descrimination and violence, and empower women to become entrepreneurs and managers by supporting gender leadership schools, and seed funding.
6
Clean Water & Sanitation
Growing organic cotton uses 91% less water than conventional cotton. We ensure responsible water treatment in yarn processing by working with the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).
7
Affordable & Clean Energy
Fairtrade has recently pioneered a carbon neutral program.
8
Decent Work & Economic Growth
Fairtrade standards promote health and safety, and supports fair wages, no child labor and gender equality.
9
Industry Innovation & Infrastructure
Organic cotton is the basis of a sustainable textile industry, and when supported with Fairtrade premiums, farmer cooperatives strengthen their infrastructure.
10
Reduced Inequality
Fairtrade mobilises trade between countries where developing nations are lifted out of poverty.
11
Sustainable Cities & Communities
To obtain Fairtrade certification, cooperatives are inclusive, support equality, and help strengthen opportunities within local communities.
12
Responsible Consumption & Production
Fairtrade works with farmers to improve the quality of crops without negatively impacting the environment. We ensure responsible production throughout our supply chain with GOTS and OEKO-TEX certifications for our organic cotton processing and trims.
13
Climate Action
Fairtrade is training farmers in new techniques to help increase resilience to climate risks through tree planting, improved irrigation, waste management and diversifying crops.
14
Life Below Water
Organic cotton keeps waterways clean and safe for people and the entire ecosystem by not using harmful chemicals and eliminating toxic run-off.
15
Life On Land
Fairtrade work with farmers to enhance biodiversity of their land by rotating crops, companion planting and on-site green waste composting.
16
Peace, Justice & Strong Institutions
Fairtrade is the only global standard that is 50% owned and run by farmers and workers. Farmers are free to join unions and vote for their cooperative representatives who have a say in how Fairtrade is run.
17
Partnerships For The Goals
We have worked with Fairtrade for 15 years and join them in their commitment to working at every level. Fairtrade’s network spans across farmers, workers, consumers, trade unions, businesses and governments to deliver impact across this partnership.
