Fairtrade

Fairtrade is a way to ensure that farmers and producers get fair prices for their products and raw materials, can benefit from the Fairtrade premium to invest in their communities and can also improve workers’ rights and working conditions.

The council passed a resolution back in November 2013 to support Fairtrade. A number of towns and villages right across Aberdeenshire have achieved and renewed Fairtrade status including Stonehaven, Inverurie, Alford, Huntly, Mid Formartine and, Peterhead and Buchan. Fairtrade status depends on  the volunteering and support of local activists.

The council also supports Fairtrade Fortnight every year with publicity and staff events. Aberdeenshire also has a number of Fairtrade schools.

Fairtrade Zone

Fairtrade Zone status is awarded to an area which makes a commitment to support and use products with the Fairtrade mark.

Aberdeenshire successfully renewed its Fairtrade Zone status in September 2023. The Zone is co-ordinated in Aberdeenshire by a steering group made up of Fairtrade activists from across the area and Chaired by an officer from the Sustainability team at the council. This group is there to support local groups, schools and retailers, tackle common issues on Fairtrade and to continue to gain support from Aberdeenshire Council.

How you can support Fairtrade

Fairtrade products presents the Fairtrade mark on them. The Fairtrade Mark independently certifies that products meet economic, social and environmental standards. As such, it is the most widely recognised ethical mark worldwide.

To support Fairtrade you can:

  • try out some of the range of Fairtrade products at home which can include Fairtrade fruit, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, rice, honey and fruit juice
  • encourage your local shop or café to consider selling Fairtrade in the future
  • convert your community, workplace or school to Fairtrade

For more information about the Fairtrade Mark and how to apply for Fairtrade status, visit Fairtrade website.