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 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 conscious consumers.
Madison has finally qualified as a Fair Trade City thanks to our efforts over the past two years. This means that we have confirmed that Madison has fulfilled the following criteria:
- The city council must pass a resolution supporting Fair Trade and the local campaign. The council commits to choosing Fair Trade products for meetings when there is a Fair Trade option.
- A range of Fair Trade products is available in local stores, cafés, & other venues.
- Fair Trade products must be used by a number of local organizations, such as places of worship, schools, hospitals, and offices.
- The local campaign attracts media attention and visible public support, including press and radio.
- A local Fair Trade steering committee must meet regularly to ensure continued commitment to Fair Trade Town status.
