ABOUT FAIR TRADE

As we embrace the idea of becoming citizens of the world, our appreciation for cultures and communities other than our own has expanded. While trade between communities across the world has always existed, this new appreciation has helped build and strengthen a human bond between the producers and consumers.

Fair Trade is a trading partnership that reinforces the people-people ties by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of marginalized producers and workers.

Fair Trade refers to the fair prices offered to producers/workers and also describes the products that are produced by them. Fair Trade businesses such as Sustainable Threads commit to certain principles in their effort to create greater equity and partnership in the international trading system. They include:

• Paying fair wages to producers/workers in the local context.
• Building long-term trade relationships.
• Engaging in & encouraging environmentally sustainable practices.
• Providing healthy and safe working conditions within the local context.
• Providing financial and technical assistance to producers whenever possible.
• Providing equal opportunities for all people.
• Offering employees opportunities for advancement.

Fair Trade Certification

Fair Trade entities can be easily identified by Fair Trade certification.

Fair Trade Federation (FTF) is the association of North American retailers and importers who are committed to fair trade principles. Each organization undergoes a rigorous screening process to evaluate their trading practices and the depth of their commitment to these principles. To learn more about FTF, please visit www.fairtradefederation.org

Green America is an organization that screens members to determine their commitment to socially and environmentally responsible business practices. It seeks evidence that the business is profit and also value driven; the business is a tool for positive social change. Visit www.greenamericatoday.org to read more about this organization.

The Sustainable Business Network (SBN) of Greater Philadelphia is a business organization that brings together local leaders who share a common passion to grow successful businesses that are socially and environmentally responsible. These businesses create or maintain organizations that respect their employees, value the community and protect the earth. Please visit www.sbnphiladelphia.org to learn about SBN.

Sustainable Threads is a proud member of the prestigious organizations - Fair Trade Federation, Green America and Sustainable Business Network