Apr 12, 2010

Fair trade group thinking globallyBy Kevin KnightIDSNews.com

The mission of global fair trade is simple, yet ambitious: to contribute to global economic development and poverty relief through education and promotion of products that adhere to fair trade principles.

Fair Trade Bloomington’s goal centers on supporting and representing the artisans and producers of goods and commodities, by promoting responsible environmental practices, safe and healthy work conditions and by making sure a fair price is established.

“We want to make sure that more of the profit goes to the producers of the product, such as coffee, and less goes to the middle man,” said sophomore Jessica Malczewski, Fair Trade Bloomington director of outreach.

The local chapter, like the global movement, strives to obtain these goals.

“Here in Bloomington we have a fair trade items store called the Global Gift store,” Fair Trade Bloomington President Mary Embry said. “They sell coffee, chocolate and handmade crafts that are all eco-friendly and fair-priced.”

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