Citywide celebrations for Fairtrade Fortnight
Residents and businesses in Plymouth are showing their support for farmers and communities in the developing world to mark Fairtrade Fortnight.
Plymouth was one of the first to be given the status of Fairtrade City 9 years ago, for showing commitment to raising awareness and promoting the use of Fairtrade goods. Its status was reconfirmed in 2012 and the city will celebrate 10 years as a Fairtrade city in 2014.
The national fortnight celebration, which runs from Monday 25 February to Sunday 10 March, will see a number events being run by businesses in both the public and private sector.
City College Plymouth will start the celebrations with their fourth Fairtrade Festival on Thursday 28 February; a student led event open to the public featuring stalls, dancing and live music. This festival is open to the general public and will run from 10am to 2pm.
The soon to open Sainsbury’s Local in Mutley will have its ribbon cut on Friday 1 March by winners of a Fairtrade colouring competition held for pre-schoolers in the area.
On Saturday 2 March, those venturing to the Piazza in the city centre could be in for a sweet treat as Plymouth University’s Fair-ies offer a free taste of ethically sourced chocolate.
In addition to these events the Co-operative Membership Team will be getting together for a Fairtrade evening, welcoming a producer from Guatemala who will talk about the difference Fairtrade has made to his community.
The fortnight will also see the Fairtrade Plymouth Network hold its first ever annual general meeting. The group, made up of residents and individuals from all sectors of business and education, will meet throughout the year to promote initiatives that support Fairtrade.
Plymouth City Council’s Cabinet Member for Co-operatives and Community Development, Councillor Chris Penberthy said: “Plymouth has a long and proud tradition of co-operative working and ethical trading is an important part of our identity. A commitment to Fairtrade ensures farmers, producers and most importantly the community as a whole benefit.
“Most of us have heard of Fairtrade and some of us make a conscious decision to buy Fairtrade products whether that’s clothing, jewellery, flowers, wine or cosmetics. Small changes in buying habits can make an astounding difference both in creating a sustainable future for developing countries and here - supporting local businesses and social enterprise. It can be as simple as choosing a Fairtrade coffee on your way to work; selecting a bar of chocolate or a banana for your lunchbox that carries the Fairtrade mark. ”
Anyone interested in joining the Fairtrade Plymouth Network or in need of further information on any of the events listed is encouraged to contact fairtrade@plymouth.gov.uk
