Fairtrade Congratulate University of Kent for it's Continued Support

The Fairtrade Organisation has congratulated the University of Kent for its continued support and success in raising awareness and sales of Fairtrade products.

The University and Kent Union were awarded Fairtrade status in February 2006. Since then, an expanded range of Fairtrade products has become available in all campus shops and Fairtrade produce is used in all campus cafes, restaurants and bars. The University and Kent Union also use Fairtrade products for conferences, college events and receptions.

Dave Reason, Master of Keynes College on the University’s Canterbury campus and Chairman of the University of Kent Fairtrade Steering Group said: ‘We are delighted that the hard work, enthusiasm and commitment of Fairtrade supporters, both students and staff, have been recognised in such glowing terms by the Fairtrade organisation.’

Dave Reason also emphasised that buying Fairtrade products (easily identified by their Fairtrade logo) gives the consumer a guarantee that she or he is helping to sustain workers, their communities and the environment. ‘And given the alternative outlook for all three,’ he said, ‘sustainability is not an option – it is a necessity. Buying Fairtrade produce makes a significant contribution to the lives of people now and in the future. We urge everyone to buy wisely and to buy Fairtrade with pride.’

The University’s Fairtrade status has been renewed until 2008.