The concept of fairtrade is well-known for its social premiums that allow producer groups to better determine their own destinies, but now a new partnership will also allow for a strengthening of its environmental credentials. 

In an announcement last week, Fairtrade America said it was proud to be named a nonprofit partner of 1% for the Planet, a global alliance of more than 1,200 member companies in 40 countries that contribute 1% of their revenues to environmental causes. 

With this partnership, Fairtrade America business partners will now be eligible to count Fairtrade fees and donations toward their 1% commitment.

As a result, the group said sales of products it certified would contribute to a healthier planet by building climate friendly, sustainable supply chains.

"We believe deeply that nonprofits, like Fairtrade America, play a critical role in solving the many challenges facing our planet,” said 1% for the Planet CEO Kate Williams

"Our core work is to grow the corporate support that enables these nonprofits to accomplish even more."

The internationally-agreed Fairtrade Standards require certified producers to commit to:

• Sustainable soil and water management for long-term soil fertility and watershed health.
• Pest management practices that minimize and ensure safe use of agrochemicals.
• Waste management techniques that protect humans and the local environment.
• Biodiversity protection through buffer zones to shield sensitive land and primary forest.
• A prohibition on the use of genetically modified organisms (GMOs).
• Beyond strong environmental standards, Fairtrade supports sustainable production that supports communities via the Fairtrade Premium, Minimum Price and trade terms that benefit all. An additional premium for organic production encourages Fairtrade producers to transition to more sustainable production.

Fairtrade certified farmers and workers frequently cite climate change as one of the greatest challenges that they face. Climate change leads to food insecurity and income loss due to unpredictable weather patterns, reduced soil fertility, an increase in pests and diseases, and more extreme weather events.

While small-scale farmers and workers in rural communities have contributed the least to climate change they feel the brunt of a changing climate.

For Fairtrade producers, climate change is not a computer model or political controversy – it’s every-day life. Fairtrade farmers are increasingly investing their Fairtrade Premium funds in adaptation projects. In addition, Fairtrade private sector and NGO partners are funding various adaptation and mitigation projects to improve community resilience.

“Fairtrade certification is important to us because it shows our consumers that we care about the treatment of every member of the supply chain, as well as the industry’s overall effect on our planet,” said Conscious Step founder Prashant Mehta.

Socks from Conscious Step are made of Fairtrade organic cotton. The company donates to four additional non-profits as part of their 1% for the Planet membership - Oceana, Trees for the Future, Conservation International, and Water.Org.

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