Don't worry, things aren't as bad as the article may make it seem. People still seem to be interested in incorporating their ethics into their buying decisions, and we haven't actually seen a drop off in this country (perhaps some slowed growth though). We see continued interest in sales numbers, press coverage, and more anecdotal experience speaking with people about Fair Trade.
However, the article does rightly point out that we, as proponents of Fair Trade or ethical consumption generally, should be mindful to not come across as moralizing, preachy, etc. It can come across as unnecessarily judgmental, which is a sure way to turn people off.
As for TransFair, the article provides another reminder of the importance of us remaining open to questions regarding the authenticity and trustworthiness of Fair Trade certification.
Not as bad as you think
Don't worry, things aren't as bad as the article may make it seem. People still seem to be interested in incorporating their ethics into their buying decisions, and we haven't actually seen a drop off in this country (perhaps some slowed growth though). We see continued interest in sales numbers, press coverage, and more anecdotal experience speaking with people about Fair Trade.
However, the article does rightly point out that we, as proponents of Fair Trade or ethical consumption generally, should be mindful to not come across as moralizing, preachy, etc. It can come across as unnecessarily judgmental, which is a sure way to turn people off.
As for TransFair, the article provides another reminder of the importance of us remaining open to questions regarding the authenticity and trustworthiness of Fair Trade certification.
Michael, TransFair Canada