Throw fair trade into your next coffee brew
Trading partnership aimed at equitable international trade practices also supports fair working conditions and sustainable development, especially in the developing world
We all have our preferred brew — a strong espresso, a flat white, an Americano or perhaps a frothy cappuccino. On World Fair Trade Day, May 11, consider the origins of the cup of coffee in your hand as you indulge in your caffeine kick, taking time to reflect on the process beyond bean to cup. Fairtrade is a trading partnership aimed at equitable international trade practices based on transparency, dialogue and respect. Apart from paying a fair price for a product, it also supports fair working conditions and sustainable development, particularly in the developing world. Fairtrade is aimed at addressing the injustices of conventional trade that usually discriminate against the smallest and poorest producers. Apart from coffee, Fairtrade products include wine, tea, chocolate, cotton and other food items. The first coffee roaster of certified Fairtrade coffee in SA was Bean There Coffee Company. Founded in 2005 by Jonathan Robinson, the company strives to make a sustainable diffe...
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