How Can I Support Fair Trade?
The Fair Trade community is made up of businesses prioritizing fair standards, farmers and workers building better futures, and consumers who are dedicated to supporting causes that matter. If you’re wondering how to support Fair Trade, there are many ways to get involved in the growing global community, like looking for the Fair Trade Certified™ label as you shop, considering partnership for your brand, or donating to Fair Trade’s growing work.
How Businesses Can Support Fair Trade
Since inception, Fair Trade Certification has expanded to more than 50 countries and currently certifies over 12,500 products. All products that carry the Fair Trade label are adhering to highly trusted, rigorous standards that ensure fair pay, safe working conditions, environmental considerations, and support for workers to carry out community development projects. To support Fair Trade through Fair Trade Certification, brands should:
- Look to fellow brands: Find committed brands in your industry that source from certified farms, factories, or fisheries. e.l.f. Beauty is a proud partner of Fair Trade USA™, and was the first in the beauty industry to source from Fair Trade Certified factories.
- Fill out the Fair Trade USA intake form: the intake form will connect you to our team to discuss what partnership could look like for your unique organization
- Submit an application: Once our team determines eligibility, you will be asked to complete an application form.
- Become an Official Partner: After signing our license agreement contract, your company will have the right to purchase and sell goods carrying the Fair Trade Certified label.
- Abide by the Trade Standard: Adhering to our Trade Standard ensures fair and transparent supply chain practices, and guarantees that products bearing the Fair Trade Certified label come from certified suppliers.
- Ongoing compliance: There are ongoing program requirements that we’ll train your team on, including marketing guidelines, meeting transaction reporting requirements, paying service fees, and contributing to Fair Trade Community Development Funds.
How Consumers Can Support Fair Trade
The best way for consumers to support Fair Trade is by looking for the label as you shop and choosing certified products. For those learning how to support Fair Trade in their daily lives, even small actions can lead to significant impact. When certified products see market success, brands are more likely to further their commitment and inspire others to do the same. Consumers drive market trends, and the demand for ethical standards continues to increase. Your dollar holds a powerful vote! Supporters can also join our community by joining our email list, following us on social media, donating to our work, or starting their own Fair Trade Campaigns.
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