News and Events

Borough’s Fairtrade accolade

RETAILERS in an east London borough have earned a big pat on the back for their decision to switch to using Fairtrade products.
Their involvement in the scheme has helped the borough of Newham to score the five crucial goals set by the Fairtrade Foundation.
Now it has been awarded Fairtrade Borough status in recognition of its efforts in promoting and supporting Fairtrade.
The council has been a key player in the local campaign, which has been led by the Newham Fairtrade Network. This is a group made up of representatives from faith groups, businesses and volunteers.
The goals that must be met to gain accreditation include Fairtrade products being used and supported by the council, schools, colleges, faith groups and a proportion of local businesses.
Since the network started a retail campaign in summer 2007 a total of 25 retailers and 13 cafes and restaurants have become involved.
“Promoting the benefits to the retailer has been a key part of the campaign,” according the the Fairtrade Foundation. “The borough of Newham is a shining example of what it means to become a Fairtrade borough.”
Fairtrade supports farmers in poorer countries by enabling them to sell their
products at a fair price, creating better conditions for workers and supporting communities through local projects. In the UK the ethical economy is growing at the rate of eight times that of the economy as a whole.
London is campaigning to become the world’s largest Fairtrade City.

http://www.thamesgatewaybusinessawards.co.uk/newbusinessawards/

Newham Mag 2nd June 2007