Fairtrade

Rutland is proud to have been a Fairtrade county since 2007. Fairtrade status is awarded by the Fairtrade Foundation and must be renewed every two years.

For Rutland to maintain its Fairtrade status, the county has to demonstrate a high level of commitment to Fairtrade across the community. As well as support from the Council, Fairtrade products need to be backed by shops, restaurants, businesses, clubs and schools.

About Fairtrade

Fairtrade is about better prices, decent working conditions and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers in the developing world.

Fairtrade makes sure producers get a guaranteed minimum price for their produce, so producers are protected from fluctuations in world markets. An additional Fairtrade Premium goes into a communal fund for workers and farmers to use to improve their social, economic and environmental conditions.

Fairtrade also promotes sustainable production and environmentally friendly practices - for example:

• improving soil and water quality
• prohibiting harmful chemicals
• encouraging biodiversity

Rutland Fairtrade Forum

The push for greater use and recognition of Fairtrade products locally is led by the Rutland Fairtrade Forum, with support from Rutland County Council, Oakham Town Council and Uppingham Town Council.

The Forum works with local business, schools and community organisations to promote Fairtrade. They also organise a series of events during the year, including an annual Fairtrade Christmas market.

Visit the Forum's website or email rutlandfairtrade@gmail.com for more information about their work and ways you can support Fairtrade in Rutland.

You can find more information about Fairtrade and download resources for schools and businesses on the Fairtrade Foundation website.