Website of the UK government

The FAIRTRADE Mark

The Fairtrade Foundation gives its FAIRTRADE Mark to products if they meet their international Fairtrade standards. The standards include:

• long-term contracts with farmers, so they can rely on having an income in the future
  
• a fair price that covers the cost of living and lets farmers produce goods in a way that doesn’t harm the environment
  
• a payment to workers' organisations so they can invest in community and environmental projects
• rights for producers – like having a say in decision-making and being allowed to join unions

The FAIRTRADE mark also promotes high environmental standards. For example, Fairtrade cotton growers are encouraged to reduce their use of pesticides, recycle materials and take steps to avoid soil erosion and water pollution. Genetically modified (GM) seeds are forbidden.

The mark appears on many products, including coffee, tea, fruit, flowers, cotton and footballs. It also appears on products that aren’t completely Fairtrade, but include a certain percentage of Fairtrade ingredients – for example, biscuits that use Fairtrade flour.

• The Fairtrade Foundation Opens new window

• Fairtrade cotton: frequently asked questions Opens new window

The Rainforest Alliance

The Rainforest Alliance works with foresters, farmers and tour operators. It aims to help their goods and services have a more positive effect on people and the environment.

Its certified seal of approval appears on products like wood, paper, fruit, plants, nuts, tea and coffee. All products are independently evaluated to make sure they have been grown or made in a way that:

• doesn’t damage the environment
  
• treats workers fairly and helps local communities
  
• makes sure the resources people depend on today (for example, forests for fuel and shelter) will be there in the future
  

• The Rainforest Alliance Opens new window

More useful links

• Shoppers: ways to be greener