WISPIRG Fair Trade believes that greater transparency in business practices is required to ensure our rights as consumers. As it currently stands, consumers are provided with little information regarding the practices used to produce the products they purchase. Fair Trade Certification ensures that products are produced in an environmentally sustainable and socially responsible manner. It is our belief that through the promotion of fair trade practices, we can educate individuals on the consequences of their purchasing habits and provide them with the information necessary to act as conscientious consumers.

In order to become Fair Trade Certified, there are 5 main criteria that WISPIRG Fair Trade needs to work toward:

1. The local council must pass a resolution supporting Fairtrade, and serve Fairtrade coffee and tea at its meetings and in offices and canteens.
2. A range of Fairtrade products must be readily available in the area's shops and served in local cafés and catering establishments.
3. Fairtrade products must be used by a number of local work places educational establishments, faith communities and other community organisations.
4. Attract media coverage and organise events to gain popular support for the campaign.
5. A local Fairtrade steering group must meet regularly to ensure continued commitment to Fairtrade Town status. The composition of your steering group should be representative of your community overall.