Chester - Britain's First Fair Trade City

Sign our Fair Trade Pledge and let people know you're committed to Fairtrade

Fairtrade "Daffodil Race"

Last year, a number of leading stores and organisations took part in the Big Banana Bash relay event. By popular demand we are now organising a new event –"The Daffodil Race." The event is to take place on Saturday 1 March 2008– 12.00 noon – 2.00 pm in Eastgate Street, Chester.

We are inviting groups & organisations to form teams of 4 to take part in this event and would like to invite you to what promises to be a fun filled activity!

Our only remit for this event, is that you complete the attached application form and return it by Friday 28 February by post or by sending an e-mail, giving full details to g.wetton@chester.gov.uk . An application form is available to download . You may enter as many teams as you wish and the dress code for the event is unrestricted!

This promises to be a fun event for everyone participating!.

The fairtrade mark

In 1993 the Fairtrade mark was launched for products produced in developing world countries and sold under fair trade regulations. Since then, sales of Fairtrade marked products have increased to the extent that UK shoppers now buy over £100 million worth of Fairtrade marked goods each year.

The Fairtrade Mark Guarantees:

• Decent wages, adequate housing and health and safety standards for workers
• The right to join trade unions or to participate in democratic organisation
• A fair minimum price and social “premium” for the communities
• Long-term trading commitment
• A commitment to better environmental standards and working  towards sustainable production
• No child or forced labour

Shops such as Oxfam, Traidcraft, And Albert sell products that can be trusted as being fairly traded. The Body Shop has a Community Trade range.

Local produce

Fair trade is also important for local farmers and crafts people. Shoppers can support fair local trade by buying goods direct from the producer or from local shops or farmers markets. In addition, consumers can request that supermarkets and other shops stock local produce and purchase these items where they are available. Supporting local producers ensures that they receive a fairer return for their products, enabling them to invest in environmental and animal welfare improvements and maintain farm workers’ employment. It also helps to sustain the local economy and cuts down on food transport miles, thereby reducing pollution.

Chester City Council in partnership with Cheshire Development Education Centre attained the status of Britain’s First Fairtrade City on the 18^th January 2002. A local Fairtrade steering group ensures continual commitment to its Fairtrade City status. Events are held throughout the year.

So what can you do?

• Buy fairly traded products as part of your shopping. If you cannot find a fairly traded product that you want ASK:! Shops maybe unaware of the demand for these items.
• Buy Fairtrade tea or coffee and locally produced milk for meetings that you organise or attend
• Get your favourite café or workplace to switch to fairly traded  refreshments
• Tell a friend or relative about Fairtrade
• When buying clothes or trainers, ask the shop manager about the conditions for workers in the factories
• Organise an event or stall to promote Fairtrade. You can ask Cheshire DEC for ideas and support
• Choose a fairly traded craft item, for the next gift that you buy
• Sign our Fair Trade Pledge

You can find out details of local fair trade suppliers by downloading the Chester Fair Trade Guide (558kb)

 

Fair Trade Events

If you know of any Fair Trade events then why not lest us know by using our online Event Notifcation Form.

 

Lada Devi, assisted by her daughter Minu, handpainting traditional ceramics / Rajendra Shaw - Traidcraft