"Goods produced under conditions which do not meet a rudimentary standard to decency should be regarded as contraband and not allowed to pollute the channels of international commerce." - Franklin Delano Roosevelt

Fair trade is a recent movement highlighting equity within the exchange of goods. Traders sell products in compliance with social and environmental production standards through trade associations such as Fair Trade Federation or Fairtrade Foundation, and pay producers fairly. That is to say, traders and producers agree through dialogue on a fair price that covers labor and material costs and compensates producers for their work.

The model particularly focuses on exports from developing countries to developed ones. Hence, it creates employment and generates income for economically disadvantaged producers in developing countries. Fair trade also encourages humane working conditions, integrates cultural and environmental factors into the products, and promotes transparent and sustainable relations with producers and gender equity.

For example, Ten Thousand Villages is the biggest fair trade retailer in the U.S. and Canada selling handicrafts and coffee beans from over 38 countries. eBay has also created a subsidiary online marketplace WorldofGood.com to sell eco- and people-positive products from certified producers all over the world.

Want to contribute to social justice and environmental soundness? Choosing fair trade products is a great way to align your purchasing power with your personal values!