In joining the Fairtrade Communities initiative, Adelaide City Council will purchase Fairtrade coffee and tea for internal use, as well as work with the wider community to promote Fairtrade products.

Lord Mayor Michael Harbison says he hopes Adelaide City Council’s move to Fairtrade will encourage other Adelaide businesses to join the Fairtrade Communities initiative.

“By switching to Fairtrade products we ensure that farmers in developing countries are paid a fair price for their produce, have good working conditions and that no child labour is used in production.”

Fairtrade Communities is an initiative developed by the Fairtrade Association of Australia New Zealand. It provides an accreditation process where a set of goals and guidelines can be adopted to promote Fairtrade within a community or area.

“With over one billion people living in extreme poverty we must accept that the decisions we make every day have an impact. Making a commitment to Fairtrade products is a small step that can help” says the Lord Mayor.

Fairtrade promotes sustainable farming methods - by limiting harmful chemicals, farmers produce more natural crops and reduce the impact on the land. A higher price for goods also means better healthcare, education and greater community resilience for a more prosperous future.

Council will establish a Fairtrade Steering Group.

Fairtrade products including coffee, tea and chocolate can be purchased at various retail outlets and cafes in Adelaide.