What is Fairtrade?
“Choosing Fairtrade is a simple way to make a difference to the lives of the people who grow the things we love.” www.fairtrade.org.uk/What-is-Fairtrade/What-Fairtrade-does
Fairtrade is about improving the livelihoods of the farmers and workers who grow the things we love by paying fair prices which reflect the true cost of production; enabling a decent standard of living. Fairtrade also encompasses social justice and sustainability, empowering farmers and workers to improve their living standards, the welfare of their community and our shared environment.
University Commitment to Fairtrade
The University of Reading is committed to supporting, promoting and improving understanding of Fairtrade to provide a positive impact.
We are delighted to have been awarded Fairtrade University Two Star status in June 2023, which underlines our commitment. This status is valid for two years.
Please follow the links below to view the full content of the University of Reading's Fairtrade policy:
The University of Reading Fairtrade Annual Progress Report and SMART Action Plan 2022/23
What are we doing to support Fairtrade?
- We participate in Fairtrade Fortnight each year to raise awareness of fair trade.
- All of our University Catering Outlets on Campus offer Fairtrade teas and coffees.
- Where possible, Fairtrade products are available for sale in all of our University and Student Union Catering Outlets.
Fairtrade Steering Group
Our Fairtrade Steering Group was established in 2004 with the purpose of increasing consumption of Fairtrade products on campus, and improving knowledge and understanding of Fairtrade. The Steering Group is comprised of University Staff, Students and Representatives of Reading University Students Union. If you would like more information about the group, please contact Erin Cooper – erin.cooper@reading.ac.uk.
Steering group documents:
Autumn 2021 - Fairtrade Steering Group Minutes
Spring 2022 - Fairtrade Steering Group Minutes
Autumn 2022 - Fairtrade Steering Group Minutes Autumn
Spring 1 2023 - Fairtrade Steering Group Minutes
Spring 2 2023 - Fairtrade Steering Group Minutes
Fairtrade Staff & Student Surveys
Commitment to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
The University of Reading is committed to supporting the SDGs - we were proud to score 3rd for SDG 12 and 27th for SDG 10 in THE rankings 2024. These scores reflect our commitment to Fairtrade.
SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) focuses on the efficient use of resources and minimising waste. At present economic growth is causing environmental degradation - this is unsustainable, particularly if global population growth continues. This goal aims to increase resource efficiency, promote sustainable lifestyles and reverse environmental degradation.
SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities) aims to reduce inequalities within and between countries. This goal covers inequalities due to income, age, sex, disability, race, ethnicity, origin, religion, economic or other status.