Canada's first Fair Trade Town is Wolfville, N.S., as designated by TransFair Canada, an organization that certifies fair trade products. The idea was adapted from an initiative in England started in 1999. It didn't take long for the idea to spread, and the UK now has more than 200 of these towns, with more sprinkled throughout Europe and the United States. Fair trade ensures farmers (often living in developing countries) are paid a fair price for their product.
Fair trade towns must achieve six goals: city council must pass a resolution in favour of fair trade and agree to use such products for its own needs; the products are made available in shops and cafés; support is demonstrated by local workplaces, faith groups and schools; interest is demonstrated by the media and the general public; a steering committee is created; and other ethical and sustainable consumption initiatives are promoted.
For a copy of the Fair Trade Town Action Kit contact chantal. havard@transfair.ca or visit www.transfair.ca for more information.
– AM with files from TransFair Canada
