HEATHER THOMAS: You may have seen the 'Fair Trade Logo' advertised on products in your local stores, but never recognized the deeper meaning and global impact of the Fair Trade initiative.

The Fair Trade movement is designed to benefit growers, consumers and the environment. In addition to insuring fair prices and decent working conditions are available to the producers, the Fair Trade initiative also helps educate communities on sustainability and raise environmental awareness.

In the case of non-food products such as textiles, crafts and ceramics, Free Trade environmental standards include:

- Maximizing the use of sustainable raw materials

- Using locally sourced materials that are recycled or biodegradable for both production and packaging

- Using energy efficient technology & production techniques that are not harmful to the environment

- Using water/sea transportation whenever possible

In the case of food products, Free Trade Environmental standards include:

- Practices that promote soil and water conservation, reforestation and species diversity.

- Promoting more organic farming practices.

- Recycling resources through composting, and mulching.

- Insuring the proper disposal of contaminated waste.

There are many Fair Trade products available in various areas of the world. Among the list are: Coffee, Chocolate, Rice, Wine, Flowers, Tea, Olive Oil, Bananas, Sugar, Vanilla and Crafts – to name a few. The following guide will provide additional information about Fair Trade as well as some participating Fair Trade retailers in the US, Canada, and Mexico. Green America Keep in mind that Fair Trade product are available around the globe, so look for the logo and talk to your local merchants to insure you are buying actual Fair Trade goods.

You really do have the power to initiate global change. Since the exposure of sweatshops, poor working conditions and unfair wages, a need was created for Fair Trade organizations to provide justice. It is up to you to become educated about the Fair Trade initiative and lead by example. By purchasing Fair Trade endorsed products you become the spark that ignites a chain reaction of empowerment, integrity, entrepreneurial creativity, a sense of community, and a positive environmental impact.