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If you’re interested in finding out more about the fair trade movement, visit these websites:
Co-op America
www.coopamerica.org
Co-op America is a not-for-profit membership organization founded in 1982. Their mission is to harness economic power—the strength of consumers, investors, businesses, and the marketplace—to create a socially just and environmentally sustainable society.
On their website, you can download a just published “Co-op America Fair Trade Guide”.
Fair Trade Federation (FTF) www.fairtradefederation.org
The Fair Trade Federation is an association of fair trade wholesalers, retailers, and producers whose members are fully committed to providing fair wages and good employment opportunities to economically disadvantaged artisans and farmers worldwide.
FTF members link low-income producers with consumer markets and educate consumers about the importance of purchasing fairly traded products which support living wages and safe and healthy conditions for workers in the developing world. FTF provides resources and networking opportunities for its members and acts as a clearinghouse for information on fair trade. FTF membership is not a certification, but members are screened for their full commitment to fair trade.
Fair Trade Resource Network
www.fairtraderesource.org
The Fair Trade Resource Network seeks to raise consumer awareness about improving people's lives through Fair Trade alternatives by gathering and compiling research and data about Fair Trade; providing information about Fair Trade to the public, the media and advocates; helping Fair Trade organizations and individuals become involved, and creating a space for dialogue and exchange within the Fair Trade movement.
International Fair Trade Association (IFAT)
www.ifat.org
The International Fair Trade Association is the global network of Fair Trade Organizations. IFAT's mission is to improve the livelihoods and well being of disadvantaged producers by linking and promoting Fair Trade Organizations, and speaking out for greater justice in world trade. Over 350 Fair Trade Organizations in 70 countries form the basis of their network and membership is growing steadily. Approximately 65% of members are based in the Asia, the Middle East, Africa and South America, with the rest coming from North America & the Pacific Rim and Europe.
Their work is centered around three areas:
- Market Development
- Fair Trade Monitoring (building trust)
- Advocacy
Photos L to R: Mayan Hands, Global Exchange, MayaWorks
Copyright © 2007, 2008 Ilana Schatz and David Lingren. All rights reserved.
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