Climate change is making crops like coffee, bananas and chocolate harder and to grow. Combined with unfair trade, communities growing these crops are being pushed to the brink.

But there is some good news. The Fairtrade Foundation works with small-scale producers, cooperatives and other organisations to promote sustainable development and empower communities. It is a global movement that aims to ensure farmers and workers in developing countries receive fair prices for their products, decent working conditions and protection of their rights. However, it’s not just about these important matters, it is also about building resilient communities and tackling climate change.

We are in the middle of Fairtrade Fortnight 2023 (27 Feb to 12 Mar) and this year’s focus is on the harmful effect of the climate crisis on the future of the global food supply chain and the livelihoods of the farmers and agriculture workers who grow them.

How does fair trade relate to climate change?

Many farmers in developing countries are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, while having contributed little to the crisis. They are left to deal with the climate emergency, such as natural disasters, extreme weather events and changing growing conditions which can lead to reduced food security and decreasing crop yields. By working with Fairtrade, their standards cover key areas for environmental protection such as energy and greenhouse gas emission reduction, and promote training for farmers, including switching to sustainable agriculture practices. Through these and other benefits put in place, these farmers are better equipped to adapt to these challenges and mitigate the effects of climate change and build resilience in their communities.

As a sustainability consultancy, we encourage our clients and all businesses to support sustainable trade practices. They can also educate their employees and customers about sustainable trade practices and advocate for fair policies and practices in their industries.

As we celebrate Fairtrade Fortnight, let’s remember the important role that fair trade plays in creating a more sustainable and equitable world. By supporting Fairtrade, we can help build a better future for everyone – one that is fairer, more resilient, and more sustainable.

Author: Deveshree Sawant, Graduate Consultant at Simply Sustainable 

1. fairtrade.org.uk/what-is-fairtrade/the-impact-of-our-work/the-difference-that-fairtrade-makes/ 
2. independent.co.uk/extras/indybest/food-drink/fairtrade-fortnight-2023-products-b2019500.html
3. www.fairtrade.org.uk/what-is-fairtrade/ 

Image source: ©2017CIAT/GeorginaSmith flickr.com/photos/ciat/33850511272