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Nearly a year of fair trading at Andover |
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Written by E Howson HT
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Monday, 01 February 2010 18:33 |
 It is just about a year since we started to provide Fair Trade at Andover.
Many farmers and workers in developing countries struggle to provide for their families. Poor market access and unfair trade rules often mean that the price they get for their crop does not cover the cost of production. They face the global challenges of food price rises and climate change too.
Fairtrade offers farmers stable and sustainable prices but the farmers must meet environment standards (e.g. looking after the soil and water resources).
Each week our Friday tuck-shop sells Fairtrade goods including fruit, fruit bread, smoothies and fruit juice. The Pupil Council set up the shop, sell the goods and clear up afterwards. They are also responsible for the publicity. The shop covers its costs but does not set out to make a profit. The children at Andover all know what the Fairtrade logo looks like and how buying Fairtrade goods can change people’s lives and help tackle poverty and injustice.
This year during Fairtrade fortnight which begins on 22nd February, a ‘Big Brew’ will be held at Andover. This year’s focus is on tea and Fairtrade are encouraging as many people as possible to drink Fairtrade tea. At the moment in Britain we drink 165 million cups of tea in a day but only 10% of this tea is Fairtrade.
The aim of our ‘Big Brew’ is to raise awareness about Fairtrade.
With over 20 million people in the developing world reliant on the tea industry it is a vital focus in the fight against poverty. Many of these people have extremely poor lives and are powerless to change their circumstances. They often lack education, healthcare and sanitation. Their yields are often poor too and they lack technical and business skills.
Given the right opportunities and trading opportunities their lives may be changed. Trade not aid is the most sustainable way to fight poverty.
Do come along to Andover for a cup of tea (or coffee) and some Fairtrade goodies on Tuesday 23rd February (morning). Time to be confirmed.
We look forward to seeing you.
For further information see:
Thank you |
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Last Updated ( Monday, 01 February 2010 18:34 )
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Andover Primary Go Bananas for Fairtrade |
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Fairtrade
