UH goes fairtrade!

	This week UH has made a commitment to support and promote ethical trade and social justice by adopting a fairtrade policy and applying for Fairtrade University status. The policy, developed by the Environment Team with the backing of senior management is supported by a steering group made up of representatives from UH Catering, Aramark, Purchasing and the newly formed UHSU Environment Society.

Nicola Corrigan, Environmental Coordinator said “By becoming a fairtrade University , UH is doing its bit in working towards a solution to social injustice in developing countries.

“Under conventional free trade many farmers are struggling to survive and cannot afford basic necessities such as food, healthcare and education. Fairtrade guarantees a better deal so that producers can afford to meet the basic needs that we all take for granted.

“Selling fairtrade also makes good business sense. The fairtrade food market has grown massively since the first products were first launched in the mid 1990's. In 2003 Fairtrade coffee accounted for 14% of the coffee market in the UK ” Nicola continued.

“Fairtrade products are now being sold at the College Lane refectory and SU shop and a range of products will shortly be on sale in the de Havilland refectory and campus shop. Fairtrade tea and coffee is also being served at all staff and Student's Union meetings and will be made available in management offices.

Nicola concluded “We're committed to promoting fairtrade and expanding our range of fairtrade products available at the University. We are urging all staff and students to support the new policy by choosing fairtrade products at UH shops and refectories and when making catering orders. Making the fairtrade choice is an easy but effective way for us all to make a difference”

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