About the University

Fair Trade

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The International Federation for Alternative Trade's (IFAT) definition of Fairtrade is:

'Fairtrade is a trading partnership, based on dialogue, transparency and respect, that seeks greater equity in international trade.

It contributes to sustainable development by offering better trading conditions to, and securing the rights of, marginalised producers.

Fairtrade organisations are engaged actively in supporting producers, awareness raising and in campaigning for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade.'

The goals of Fairtrade are:

To improve the livelihoods and wellbeing of producers by improving market access, strengthening the producer organisations, paying a better price and providing continuity in the trading relationship.
To promote development opportunities for disadvantaged producers, especially women and indigenous people, and to protect people from exploitation in the production process.
To help consumers exercise their purchasing power positively, by raising their awareness of the negative effects of international trade on producers.
To set an example of partnership in trade through dialogue, transparency and respect.
To campaign for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade.
To protect human rights by promoting social justice, sound environmental practices and economic security.

Source: International Federation for Alternative Trade

BU: A Fairtrade University

BU has been awarded Fairtrade University Status by the Fairtrade Foundation, becoming one of only approximately 50 Fairtrade Universities and Colleges across the UK.

Being a Fairtrade University means making a detailed commitment to promoting the consumption of Fairtrade products.

To be awarded Fairtrade Status the University had to achieve five goals:

Approve an official Fair Trade Policy
Set up an institutional steering group
Commit to selling Fairtrade products in all University outlets
Commit to using Fairtrade products at internal meetings and events
To campaign for changes in the rules and practice of conventional international trade.
Commit to campaigning for increased consumption

But the award of Fairtrade University Status is just the beginning. For the University's status to be retained, the steering group must develop the goals and report to the Fairtrade Foundation on progress at the end of each academic year.

Please view the Bournemouth University Fair Trade Policy (PDF 798kb)