University achieves prestigious Fairtrade status

07 Jul 2023

Our University has achieved a Fairtrade University one star award, after being audited for the academic year 2022/23

We first received Fairtrade University status in 2005 and have worked hard to develop our commitment to Fairtrade since this time.

What is the award and why is it important?

This prestigious award is delivered as a partnership between the Fairtrade Foundation and Students Organising for Sustainability (SOS-UK). The Fairtrade University and College Award gives recognition to institutions that have embedded ethical and sustainable practices through their curriculum, procurement, research and campaigns.

Our University has been awarded Fairtrade University one star status. The award recognises the work and commitment across many facets of our University towards a more just, equal and sustainable world for all.

This includes working to raise awareness with students of the issues related to ethical and sustainable consumption and increasing the availability of Fairtrade products in outlets on campus.

Students were recruited as volunteer auditors to determine if Fairtrade status could be awarded. The students were given training, equipping them with transferrable skills and experience in conducting an audit.

The award is a testament to the collaborative efforts of colleagues and students. They have worked together to meet the award criteria, in areas including procurement, awareness raising and campaigning activities.

What is Fairtrade and how can you get involved?

Fairtrade aims to tackle the injustices of conventional trade and ensure that their farmers have decent working conditions and prices for the crops they grow.

To find out more about Fairtrade and what we’re doing on campus please visit Food on Campus.

Alison Shedlock, Assistant Director of Estates, said: “The Fairtrade Status one star award is testament to the endless work which takes place right across our University.  As sustainability sits at the heart of the University and filters into everything we do as a team.  We are committed to building on this achievement in the future”.