Students get a taste of Fairtrade ethics

Fairtrade Fortnight, which runs from 25 February to 10 March, is when thousands of individuals, companies and groups across the UK come together to celebrate the people who grow our food, people who live in some of the poorest countries in the world and who are often exploited and badly paid.

As part of the campaign, the student experience team delivered presentations within lessons around Fairtrade – including what it is, and how it supports sustainability and the quality of life of those who are involved.

Students were able to discover more about what Fairtrade stands for during information sessions within their lessons, organised by the student experience team.

Fairtrade tasting sessions were organised where students and staff could sample Fairtrade tea, chocolate and biscuits in return for a small donation to the Fairtrade Foundation charity.

Students’ Union president Robyn Hodgson said: “This year the Fairtrade Foundation has focused on women who grow cocoa for chocolate. In particular their working conditions and pay and local sustainability.

“We wanted to draw students’ attention to what they’re buying and consuming and look further than just the shops they visit, but abroad where products are sourced.  Buying Fairtrade products may sometimes cost a little more, but it’s helping vulnerable people working abroad earn a living income, as well as addressing the injustice of discriminatory trading.”