Join Monmouthshire's Fairtrade Fortnight: Over 30 Events to Support Global Farmers

Fairtrade Fortnight: Engaging the Community in Ethical Choices

The Fairtrade movement is not just a campaign; it’s a powerful way to impact global communities. This year, Monmouthshire is taking an inspiring step forward by hosting more than 30 events during Fairtrade Fortnight, running from September 22 to October 5. From schools to local community groups, residents are uniting for what is set to be the biggest Fairtrade Coffee Morning yet.

Understanding the Environmental Impact

One of the key themes this year is the link between Fairtrade products and environmental sustainability. Coffee, often linked to tropical deforestation due to land clearance for plantations, presents a significant challenge. Fairtrade coffee, however, ensures a fair price for farmers while also promoting sustainable practices that combat deforestation. As emphasized by Councillor Catrin Maby, the events will help raise awareness about how consumer choices can foster both social and environmental responsibility.

Unique Activities and Special Guests

Adding a personal touch to the event, Jenipher Sambazi, a Fairtrade coffee grower from Uganda, will visit local schools, sharing her experiences and the transformative impact Fairtrade has had on her life. Schools will also participate in an innovative, interactive lesson hosted by the charity Size of Wales, focusing on coffee cultivation and its connection to tropical rainforests. This firsthand insight will provide students with a deeper understanding of the importance of Fairtrade.

A Call to Action for Local Residents

Fairtrade Fortnight serves as a vital reminder of how buying Fairtrade products contributes to changing lives around the world. By participating in these local events, community members not only support global farmers but also foster a culture of awareness and activism in their daily shopping habits.

As this unique initiative unfolds across Monmouthshire, the community is encouraged to take part in the events, from coffee mornings to school assemblies, which aim to educate about responsible consumption. With increasing awareness, we can celebrate and amplify the positive impacts well beyond Fairtrade Fortnight.