Saarlouis granted Fairtrade City status again
In the heart of Germany, the city of Saarlouis has once again affirmed its dedication to fair trade and sustainable consumption, extending its status as a Fairtrade Town for another two years. This commitment is shared by over 900 other towns in Germany and more than 2,000 cities across 36 countries worldwide, as part of the international Fairtrade Towns network.
Saarlouis, a city with a rich history, has been a member of this global movement since 2011. The city's steering group, composed of representatives from the city administration, churches, the Catholic Family Education Center, schools, and local businesses, works tirelessly to implement measures that promote fair production conditions and sustainable consumption.
The Fairtrade Towns campaign, initiated in 2009, aims to raise awareness, increase the availability of Fairtrade products, and support ethical trade practices. By doing so, it contributes to more equitable global trade and sustainable development.
The city council's decision in 2009 marked the beginning of Saarlouis's journey towards becoming a Fairtrade Town. This decision reaffirmed the city's commitment to enabling producers in the global South fair working and living conditions.
Saarlouis's continued status as a Fairtrade Town supports its goal of making a personal contribution to fair trade and sustainable consumption. The mayor, Marc Speicher, commends the commitment of many citizens who volunteer for fair trade, highlighting their efforts as a testament to the city's dedication.
The Fairtrade Towns initiative encourages cities to take responsibility for fair production conditions and sustainable consumption. By engaging local governments, businesses, and civil society in Fairtrade advocacy, these towns increase consumer awareness and demand for products made under fair labor and environmental standards. They also support producers in developing countries to gain fair prices and improve their livelihoods.
Saarlouis, as a Fairtrade Town, plays a significant role in this global movement. It serves as a grassroots campaign to promote fair production conditions and sustainable consumption, contributing to a more equitable global trade system.
For those interested in learning more about the Fairtrade Towns initiative and its goals, the website www.fairtrade-towns.de provides valuable information. The website details the campaign's objectives, initiatives, and the steps taken by towns like Saarlouis to meet the five required criteria of the Fairtrade Towns campaign.
In summary, Fairtrade Towns globally are local communities committed to encouraging fair production conditions and sustainable consumption through education, advocacy, and supporting Fairtrade products. They play a significant role in the global Fairtrade movement, working towards equitable and sustainable futures aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals.
[1] Reference: International Fair Trade Towns Conference. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.fairtrade-towns.org.uk/conference/
- As a Fairtrade Town, Saarlouis extends its commitment to sustainable living, fostering a lifestyle that supports ethical trade practices and promotes home-and-garden products produced under fair conditions.
- In line with the objectives of the Fairtrade Towns initiative, the city council and various institutions in Saarlouis are dedicated to encouraging the use of sustainable-living practices and Fairtrade products in home-and-garden settings, contributing to a more equitable global trade system.
