Fair-trade

Fairtrade Processing Shots Picture 24

From a humble beginning, today, Fair Trade has grown to 23 organizations worldwide, including Fairtrade Foundation that runs the international standard setting and monitoring body called Fairtrade Labeling Organization International or FLO. These 23 members offer a third-party guarantee that the fair trade items purchased by consumers are produced under FLO standards. TransFair USA, one of the 23 members, is the only third-party certifier of Fair Trade products in the USA.

Unlike free trade, fair trade is intended to provide fair exchanges with farmers and artisans. Fair trade offers farmers better lifestyles because producers are paid enough to have health care, education for their children and sustainable production methods.

Currently only agricultural products are certified as fair-trade. Non-agricultural industries are interested in having third party certification applied to their products, understanding the importance of the certification process to the farmer and to the consumer. FLO and an umbrella organization are working together to accomplish this in the future, which will make it possible for TransFair USA to certify non-agricultural products.

During this transition time period when regulations are being worked out for the garment and other non-agricultural industries, GreenEarth Wear is intentional about choosing companies that uphold stringent standards.

Fairtrade 2007F13Villages

Fair Wage: workers are paid a fair wage for their labor.

Safe Working Conditions: the work environment is safe, non-toxic, heated and well-lit.

Quality Products: Artisan products are well crafted. Artisan cooperatives build communities, and the products produced are honored.

Environmentally Friendly: Fair-trade products are gentle on the earth, making our purchases count for a cleaner tomorrow.