What is Fairtrade Fortnight, why is it important and how can you get involved?
For two weeks each year, at the end of February and start of March, thousands of schools, colleges and universities across the UK come together to learn from the people who grow our food and drinks, mine our gold and who grow the cotton in our clothes – people who are often exploited and underpaid.
Through learning about how we are all connected through the things we eat, drink and wear, young people are equipped with the knowledge and skills to shape a more compassionate and sustainable world.
Last Fairtrade Fortnight, schools explored the topic of ‘Climate, Fairtrade and You‘, learning how farmers around the world are affected by climate change. Students shared their own visions of the world that they want for farmers and workers worldwide and the planet that we all share. These inspiring works were displayed in the 2021 Fairtrade Youth Exhibition.
Since then, the UN Climate Change Conference (COP26) has taken place in Glasgow. Young people urged politicians to be fair with their climate promises and support those most affected by climate change. Their calls took the form of hand-written messages displayed on hand-crafted banana, cocoa and coffee leaves – shining a light on the farmers most impacted. As more messages were written, a forest of promises began to take root across the country.
The Forest of Promises highlighted that those who have done the least to cause this crisis are hit the hardest by extreme weather and increasing temperatures. This isn’t fair. Sadly, the wealthiest nations who attended COP26 did not commit to take urgent action to support those most affected by climate change.
So how can we help?
Take action now!
Take up the fight for trade justice! Get your university involved in campaigns and events taking place across the UK and do your bit.
It’s not just about getting Fairtrade status for your university or college – there are lots of opportunities for your university to take up the fight for trade justice. Find out the latest news and stories from Fairtrade farmers and workers and the impact that Fairtrade is having on their lives.
Take a quick action now in support of one of these current campaigns
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Visit the latest news page for all the latest developments in the movement
Information taken from: https://schools.fairtrade.org.uk/take-action/fairtrade-fortnight-2022/