A Fairtrade flag has been raised this week in Motherwell to help celebrate Fairtrade Fortnight and the third anniversary of North Lanarkshire becoming a Fairtrade zone.
Representatives from the North Lanarkshire Fairtrade Zone Steering Group and the Scottish Fair Trade Forum joined Provost Kenneth Duffy in marking the occasion as the flag was hoisted outside the civic centre. Fairtrade is about ensuring better prices, working conditions, sustainability and trade terms for farmers and workers in the developing world.
To retain Fairtrade Zone status, North Lanarkshire must demonstrate that the area provides a high level of support from the council, local businesses, shops, cafes, churches, faith groups, schools, colleges and community groups.
Provost Duffy said: “We are very proud North Lanarkshire continues to develop and encourage the use of Fairtrade products.
“It’s great to see local shops and restaurants selling Fairtrade products and our schools, libraries and leisure centres also ensuring they use Fairtrade items.
“We all have power to make choices which can help others to have better lives. Fairtrade challenges people to think about the source of goods we buy, and we can all make a difference here in North Lanarkshire.
“During Fairtrade Fortnight it has been good to see so much engagement across our local schools and New College Lanarkshire as well as across the community.
“Look in the supermarket aisles, shops or cafes to find items with the Fairtrade mark. You could buy Fairtrade coffee, chocolate, sugar or tea. Some retailers stock garments made with Fairtrade cotton or ask your local jewellers if they trade Fairtrade gold, silver or other precious metals.
“We need to ensure we raise awareness about the goals of Fairtrade and get more local people and businesses involved in the Fairtrade movement.”
Motherwell, Wishaw and Airdrie have individually held Fairtrade Town status since 2007, 2014 and 2020 respectively.
Scotland is currently celebrating 10 years as a Fairtrade nation which will be celebrated throughout 2023.