Imagine holding in your hand a fabulous piece of chocolate you love. Who made it? And what about your favorite T-shirt or sweater: where was it sewn? Fair trade and ethical consumerism are just two small components of this growing awareness and very important for a world that cares about people and, generally, the planet.
What is Fair Trade?
Fair trade, besides ensuring that producers and workers from developing countries are paid adequately, comprises better working conditions, environmental care, respect, and dignity for workers. When a product carries the fair trade label, you are supporting some farmers who have received a fair wage and have safe working conditions, and their self-sustaining practices will be encouraged.
For example, do you know that fair-trade coffee not only contributes to the farmer who grew the beans but also to the environment? Often, enforcement of strict environmental standards on the part of the organizations ensures that farmers grow their crops in ways sustainable for the earth.
Ethical Consumerism: Your Buying Power
Ethical consumerism really puts forth that, as consumers, we have the power to choose the kind of products that adhere to our values. The bottom line is buying with your heart: using your purchasing power to show support for brands and companies to make the right decisions—be it a fair wage, eco-friendly production, or cruelty-free—and the like. Maybe you walk into a store and choose to purchase a T-shirt made from organic cotton because this one wasn't made in a sweatshop. That's a very small decision, yet that decision sends a ripple effect to continue upholding labor practices and sustainable production.
"Patagonia" and "The Body Shop" represent leaders in ethical consumerism, to name just a few. Patagonia makes its way of doing business in an environmentally friendly manner by connecting recycled materials and passion for environmental causes. The Body Shop makes it easy for the consumer to make ethical choices with challenging cues such as cruelty-free beauty products and fair trade ingredients.
Why It Matters Today
This is most evident in an increasingly challenging world—both in terms of environmental issues but also those relating to the exploitation of workers—that a new significance has come to fair trade and ethical consumerism. With conscious choices, we are forcing companies and their brand lines to make that shift. According to recent studies, the ethical market for fashion will boom all over the globe since consumers are demanding fashionable yet sustainable products.
"No Nasties" and "People Tree" brands are taking it on a different level in India with ethically sourced and environmentally friendly products. Of course, it is a global movement.
Conclusion: Your Choice Matters
From the cup of coffee to the clothes and beauty products that we wear, our daily errands are not just impacting the pocket but also the laborers, the surroundings, and the far-off future of sustainable practices. Being part of the movement of fair trade and ethical consumerism is a step to a fairer and more sustainable world.