Fair Trade Fortnight: Promoting Justice and Sustainability

What Is Fairtrade Fortnight?

Each year, from late February to early March, individuals, organizations, and businesses across the United Kingdom come together to celebrate Fairtrade Fortnight. This event honors the farmers, miners, and workers who produce the everyday items we rely on—food, drinks, gold, and cotton. Many of these workers face exploitation and inadequate pay. Fairtrade Fortnight provides a platform for young people aged 5 to 25 to share their vision for a fairer, more sustainable world—one that supports producers globally and protects our planet.

Global Voices: Facing Climate Change Together

Fairtrade Fortnight 2021 highlighted the increasing challenges that climate change poses for farmers and workers in Fairtrade communities. The evidence is clear: those in countries like Kenya, Ethiopia, and Honduras—who have contributed least to global carbon emissions—are suffering the most from its effects. These communities have shared their stories, emphasizing:

• Climate change is one of the most urgent threats they face.
• Low crop prices limit their ability to respond to these challenges.
• Greater financial support is needed to meet daily needs and tackle climate-related risks.

The climate crisis is already impacting vulnerable regions through droughts, crop diseases, floods, heatwaves, and declining harvests—threatening livelihoods and food security.

The Impact of COVID-19 on Farmers

The COVID-19 pandemic has made life even harder for farmers worldwide. Falling commodity prices and disrupted supply chains have caused economic shocks, while persistent poverty leaves farming communities less able to cope with climate change and uncertainty.

During Fairtrade Fortnight, the Fairtrade Foundation arranges for cooperative farmers to visit schools, TV studios, and radio stations across the UK. These visits put a human face on trade justice and amplify the voices of farmers and workers. By prioritizing their needs—especially as they confront environmental crises—Fairtrade Fortnight helps raise awareness and inspire action. Your support can make a real difference.

Why Fairtrade Matters: Empowering People and Protecting the Planet

Fairtrade is more than just a certification—it’s a global movement for equity. By choosing Fairtrade products, you help ensure that farmers and workers in developing countries receive fair prices and an additional premium. These funds support vital community projects, such as education, healthcare, and sustainable farming.

Fairtrade also promotes environmentally responsible farming methods, including organic agriculture, agroforestry, and water conservation. These practices help build resilience to climate change and protect natural resources for future generations.

How You Can Support Fairtrade Fortnight

• Educate Yourself and Others: Learn about the challenges farmers and workers face, and share what you learn with your community.
• Choose Fairtrade Products: Look for the Fairtrade mark when shopping for coffee, tea, chocolate, bananas, cotton, and more.
• Participate in Events: Join local Fairtrade Fortnight activities, such as school presentations, community fairs, or online campaigns.
• Advocate for Change: Use your voice to support policies that promote fair trade and sustainable development worldwide.

Fairtrade Success Stories and Global Impact

Fairtrade has transformed communities around the world. Cooperatives in Latin America, Africa, and Asia have used Fairtrade premiums to build schools, improve healthcare, and adopt eco-friendly farming techniques. These initiatives not only improve quality of life but also empower communities to face environmental and economic challenges with confidence.

By supporting Fairtrade, consumers play a direct role in building a more just and sustainable global economy—one where producers are recognized and rewarded fairly for their hard work.

Learn More and Get Involved

To explore how Fairtrade supports sustainable development and climate resilience, visit the Fairtrade Foundation website. For a broader look at global efforts to tackle poverty, inequality, and climate change, see the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

Fairtrade Fortnight is a chance to reflect on our global connections and take meaningful action. By choosing Fairtrade, you help create a fairer world—where farmers and workers can thrive, and the environment is protected for generations to come.