When shopping for Christmas gifts and other items around the holidays, we try to use all of our options. But, what we are looking for is quality and that can’t be compromised. One idea many people haven’t tried is fair trade items. Buying these items will help another person somewhere around the world.
The idea of fair trade is a fairly new one, as the practice is less than twenty years old. Its purpose is to help craftsman and artisans around the world, especially those in underdeveloped countries, to have their work recognized. In doing so, their quality of life can be improved.
To ensure that profits are realized in the village or co-op where the products were made, those who deal in fair trade merchandise buy directly from them. There is no middleman waiting to get their share of the profits.
Those who deal with fair trade items also ensure that no other illegal activities are going on. If workers are abused or forced to make their goods under substandard conditions, the merchandise is not used. Also, environmentally friendly practices must be honored in the creation of the items for sale. As an example, no use of harmful chemicals can play a part in crop production for farms participating in fair trade agreements.
Products from several countries are featured for sale in stores and online. These items are sold at a price that is fair to you and a fair price for the people making them so that no one is exploited.Their beautiful handiwork is seen all over the world and is of the highest quality. These artisans are true to their craft and create the best products possible.
Many artisans use recycled products to make their products. Some have developed enitre cottage industries out of collecting recycled materials and creating something useful with them.
These individuals and cooperatives have created many items that we can use to decorate for the holidays where we live. They craft ornaments, figurines, unique gift items, and other products. Acquiring these items is easier than you think. They are as close as the Internet on your computer or the store down the street.
One store that carries fair trade products is Ten Thousand Villages. You can go to their website and join their mailing list. In their stores they feature products made from recycled materials and fair trade items from around the world. They can be found at www.tenthousandvillages.com.
Other stores on the Internet are also fair trade dealers. They showcase items for Christmas such as ornaments, baskets, nativity scenes, garland, and clothing. Here are a few websites to check out for your holiday needs:
* Fair Trade Products from Gaiam
* Global Exchange: Fair Trade and Socially Conscious Gifts
* Organic, Fair, Natural Gifts from Wild Dill
* TransFair USA: Find Fair Trade shops in your area, and online
Looking for something special this year? Help someone out in the global community, and shop for fair trade merchandise.