Our University is Fair Trade | He whare wānanga Tauhokohoko Matatika tēnei
UC has been recognised by the Fair Trade Association of Australia and New Zealand as a Fair Trade University, one of only two in New Zealand, and the first entirely Fair Trade campus.
We received our accreditation in July 2017, and as a university community we are incredibly proud of this achievement.
Fair Trade supports marginalised farmers and workers in developing countries, enabling them to take care of their environment and to build a better and more secure life for themselves, their families and their communities. By changing the balance of power in trade, purchasing Fair Trade creates a real, positive difference in people’s lives, from the farmers and workers growing crops, right through the supply chain to the place where you buy the end product.
What does this mean for UC?
Being recognised as a Fair Trade University means our community is committed to being a socially responsible institution. We demonstrate this by supporting Fair Trade growers and producers in our department kitchens, campus retail outlets, through our supplier contracts, and by encouraging our University community to become aware of key global, social and environmental issues that affect real people and their communities around the world.
UC is proud to stand with Fair Trade producers and encourage ethical sourcing. To support this, we are committed to purchasing Fairtrade and World Fair Trade Organisation (WFTO) certified products.
You can find a range of Fairtrade and WFTO products available in campus retail outlets, in department kitchens, and available to purchase through Unimarket. See below for more information on purchasing and ordering Fair Trade at UC.
How can I get involved?
Each year, the UC Sustainability Office celebrates Fairtrade Fortnight (August) and World Fair Trade Day (May) with events, social campaigns and activities for our community to participate in.
Keep your eyes on our event page for more information, follow our social media or contact sustainability@canterbury.ac.nz if you have an idea for an event or awareness activity for fair trade or modern slavery on campus.
You are involved in supporting Fair Trade and making a positive difference to people’s lives every time you purchase a product or support a company that has the Fairtrade or WFTO mark. See our ‘What is Fair Trade’ page for more information on the principles and benefits of Fair Trade, both on and off campus.
