Fairtrade in Bolton
Bolton is proud to be a Fairtrade Town. It was one of the first towns to be accredited by the Fairtrade Foundation in March 2003. A very active campaign group – Fairtrade in Bolton – organises events throughout the year and celebrates Fairtrade Fortnight.
Fairtrade in Bolton has won several national awards for its work in promoting Fairtrade locally, its latest being for the ‘Best Banana Activity’ in the 2009 Fairtrade Fortnight Awards.
What is Fairtrade?
Fairtrade is about better prices, decent working conditions, local sustainability and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers in the developing world. By requiring companies to pay sustainable prices (which must never fall lower than the market price), Fairtrade addresses the injustices of conventional trade, which traditionally discriminates against the poorest, weakest producers. It enables them to improve their position and have more control over their lives.
Buying products with the FAIRTRADE Mark guarantees:
- farmers' organisations get a fair and stable price for their products.
- extra income for farmers and plantation workers to improve their lives.
- greater respect for the environment.
- smaller farmers a stronger position in world markets.
- a closer link between consumers and producers.
Bolton Council supports Fairtrade
Bolton Council has supported the Fairtrade campaign since 2002 and the Mayor of Bolton is patron of Fairtrade in Bolton. In March 2009, the council unanimously passed a resolution re-confirming its commitment to Fairtrade.
- Fairtrade refreshments are served at council meetings.
- There are Fairtrade food and drink options and Fairtrade Foundation materials in council office refreshment areas.
- Bolton Council helps to promote Fairtrade issues locally through newspapers, the council website and other media.
- Bolton Council supports Fairtrade in Bolton, helping to produce a Fairtrade guide for Bolton and promoting local campaigns.
- The council is represented on the Fairtrade in Bolton Steering Group.