If you manage a coffee shop – or you’re an avid coffee drinker – do you look for the fair trade label? According to Madison’s Isthmus, fair trade coffee sales have grown from 1 million pounds in 1997 to 64 million pounds last year, accounting for 3% of all U.S. coffee sales. Fair trade certification, which began in Europe in the ‘80s and finally moved to the U.S. in 1999, ensures the farmers and workers who produce these products are paid a living wage in their countries. So they can afford the basic necessities of food, shelter, education, and health care. Fair trade also focuses on environmental sustainability and human rights issues. While consumers most frequently see the fair trade label on coffee or chocolate, the certification has grown to include “about 40 different products from 1,500 retail companies, including bananas, tea, sugar, cocoa, honey, orange juice, fresh fruit, rice, wine, and even soccer balls, cut flowers, and cotton clothing.” Our guess is a new documentary about the coffee trade, Black Gold, will stir up more conversation about just who’s growing and picking those beans we love – and who’s profiting the most. The film was released on DVD in late October. |
