Nominations are being sought for Edinburgh's fair trade champions as the city gears up for Fairtrade Fortnight 2010.
Individuals, organisations and businesses that have made a difference to the world of fair trade are to be formally recognised for their achievements by Edinburgh's Lord Provost George Grubb. Edinburgh was awarded Fairtrade City status in 2004 and each year the Fair Trade Awards recognise the contribution of Edinburgh citizens.
This year two new categories have been added to the Fair Trade Awards, which are supported by Scotmid.
The winners will be announced during Fairtrade Fortnight, which runs from 22 February to 7 March 2010.
The Awards are:
- Best Fair Trade Newcomer
- Best Fair Trade School
- Best Fair Trade General
- Best Fair Trade Community Group *
- Best Fair Trade Faith Community Group*
"These awards provide us with an excellent opportunity to praise the fantastic contribution individuals and businesses are making to fair trade throughout Edinburgh," said Lord Provost George Grubb at a press event at the Always Sunday Fairtrade coffee shop on the High Street on Monday.
"This year's Fairtrade Fortnight theme is 'the Big Swap' and we're delighted to be adding two brand new categories to the awards. Our aim is to encourage more and more people to become ethical shoppers by swapping their usual products for Fairtrade versions wherever possible."
Always Sunday owner Mary Macdonald (pictured), who said the shop would be introducing Fairtrade tea, noted that the quality and range of Fairtrade tea options has improved significantly in recent years. The coffee shop has always served Fairtrade coffee.
"I think discerning consumers are aware that they can directly impact the lives of poor farmers throughout the Third World tea/coffee production areas, simply by chosing Fairtrade products," said Macdonald.
"I'm happy to know that the African, Asian and South/Central American farmers who have produced the tea and coffee that we serve have received a fair price for their high quality produce."
More on Edinburgh's Fairtrade Fortnight.
* new Fair Trade award