Ecologue

Have you heard about fair trade?  Come get free coffee and learn!

Join us next Wednesday, October 26, for free coffee and information about Fair Trade!  We will be in the SEC Plaza from 12:00pm-3:00pm handing out coffee that was ethically purchased to support Fair Trade, a program working to pay farmers the wages they deserve.  We will also have Fair Trade trivia you can play to win treats and other fun prizes.  But make sure to bring your own cup or reusable mug.

Why are we doing this?

Oregon State is working to become a Fair Trade Certified University.  This is a big deal, if we proceed with the momentum we have been working at, Oregon State can become one of the first Fair Trade certified public universities in the United States. (http://fairtradecampaigns.org) We are working to promote what we are doing and inspire students to be mindful of their own purchases.

What is Fair Trade?

Fair Trade is a non-profit organization created to bridge the gap between big corporations and underpaid farmers, support the environment and create more sustainable ways of production for foods we consume every day.  Many farmers are rural peoples in South America and Africa and barely make enough the keep living; sometimes to only making between 1-3% of the price the product is eventually sold.  Fair Trade works to give the producers an equitable cut of pay to allow them to continue their work and even promotes more sustainable farming practices to further help them, as well as the environment.  Companies can become Fair Trade certified and are able to put the Fair Trade trademark on their products.  Some main products through fair trade include coffee, tea, cocoa and sugar. Learn more about Fair Trade here:

http://www.fairtrade.org.uk/en/what-is-fairtrade/fairtrade-and-sustainability

http://fairtradeusa.org/what-is-fair-trade

How can I support Fair Trade in my daily life?

Be conscious of what you are purchasing and where it comes from!  Look for Fair Trade Certified products which will have a Fair Trade certification on the product.

That’s great, but I still need a little more incentive to come receive free coffee.

October is actually National Fair Trade month!  In honor of Fair Trade month, Fair Trade is holding a photofest competition.  By coming to the SEC and getting free coffee and learning about Fair Trade, you can submit a photo you take at this event for a chance to win a trip to South America!

We hope to see you there!