Have you ever heard of Fair Trade? Why is there so much talk about fair trade today and why is it so important?
Fair Trade indicates an economic system that is based on communication and transparency, and above all general respect. It works to achieve greater equity between the North and the South of the world.
Specifically, Fair Trade favors sustainable development by offering workers better economic conditions and ensuring fair rights for producers and suppliers, who usually are marginalized in nowadays market.
So, if you decide to buy fair trade certified products, you actively decide to contribute to the fight against the exploitation of child labor and to help communities in difficulty, as the extra revenues received from producers are used to help those in difficulty and support the local economies.
Here are the main characteristics of Fair Trade
Fair Trade or fair trade aims to achieve greater equity between the North and South of the world by placing respect for the environment as a key value.
There are some main characteristics that distinguish fair trade. Let’s see them together.
- Short supply chain. This means the production chain has a reduced number of production steps, unlike the one typical of “traditional” trade.
- More rights for workers. Fair Trade gives the worker a number of important rights: the right to fair compensation, the right to a decent work environment, the right to lead a healthy life and many others. The life of the worker is the main concern and companies are asked to establish more dialogue with workers.
- Environmental protection. Respect for the environment is one of the most important principles of Fair Trade. Environmental protection translates into favoring the increase of eco-friendly production, as opposed to more aggressive types of production. At the same time, it is important to increase the protection of natural resources and the maintenance of biodiversity.
- Fair Payments. The value of equity translates into fair prices, fair wages and compliance with the minimum wages established in the various countries of reference. According to Fair Trade, the negotiation of the remuneration must take place in a fair way, involving all the actors and favoring a continuous and profitable dialogue.
Fair Trade in the fashion industry: sustainable fashion
Fair Trade can be applied to several field, including the fashion industry. More specifically, it is mostly used in sustainable fashion, when the garments are produced respecting the environment around us, with production methods that cause a lower environmental impact.
Why is it important to know what the benefits of sustainable fashion are?
According to recent studies and research, the fashion industry is considered the second most polluting industry in the world. We cannot remain indifferent to this, but it is necessary to rethink the way of conceiving and creating fashion.
ProtoXtype was born with the aim of following the fundamental principles of Fair Trade, producing sustainable clothing through the use of hypoallergenic, antibacterial and breathable fabrics. Our garments are ideal for those who practice sports, love to travel or are simply looking for high quality technical clothing.