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Fairtrade promotes organic farming

Trade justice and environmental justice are intertwined. We value organic farming practices but know farmers face barriers to implementing them, making them inaccessible to many. Therefore, we do not require but enthusiastically support organic certification through Fairtrade's producer networks.

  • 60%
    of Fairtrade produce is also organic
Organic certification is a cost for farmers

Incentivizing Organic

Fairtrade values the unique and delicate environments we work in across the planet. Fairtrade farmers implement basic environmentally friendly farming practices – like only using non-GMO seeds and avoiding certain toxic pesticides. We do not require organic certification because barriers like cost, location, quality of soil and training often make it difficult to pursue for some farmers. Our local and regional experts work with farmers that are interested in pursuing organic certification whenever possible. We also incentivize converting to organic with a higher Fairtrade Minimum Price. Using coffee as an example – the price for conventional Fairtrade is $1.80/pound, while Fairtrade organic certified is $2.20/pound.

Learn about our Fairtrade Standards

Fairtrade is committed to the environment

  • Fairtrade Standards: Our Fairtrade Standards prohibit the use of GMO seeds and more than 200 highly hazardous pesticides.
  • Training & Support: Local experts train and support farmers in reducing their impact on their ecosystems.
  • Resources to Implement Best Practices: Many farmers choose to invest their Fairtrade Premium to build sustainable farming systems - like investing in better irrigation.

Sama Limburni, Tea Farmer

"Organic farming is so nice because our health is not affected by chemicals. Because of organic our future will be better."

A tea farmer fills a basket with dried leaves.