Environment

There are Fair Trade standards for both small producer organizations and hired labour situations. Organizations and companies are expected to achieve a balance between environmental protection and business results.  Measures include crop rotation, cultivation techniques, crop selection, careful use of fertilizers and pesticides, and, in some cases, shade-grown production. Producers are all encouraged to minimize the use of energy, especially energy from non-renewable sources.

Within co-ops and associations, the producer’s organization ensures that its members commit to environmental sustainability.  FLO encourages small producers to work towards organic certification where socially and economically practical.

Companies are expected to protect the natural environment an d to make environmental management a part of company management.

The following specific environmental commitments apply to both groups:

• Agrochemicals: Limit the use of those agrochemicals which are permitted
• Waste: Reduce, reuse, recycle, and compost waste  in an appropriate manner
• Soil: Maintain and enhance the fertility and structure of soil
• Water: Manage water resources with the objectives
• Fire: Prevent the use of fire in a way that adversely affects natural systems
• Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs): Do not use in products or processing

Read more here:
Small Producer Organizations Generic Standards
Hired Labour Generic Standards