History

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The Fairtrade Universities and Colleges scheme started in 2003 when Oxford Brookes University became the first Fairtrade University. It was quickly joined by the University of Birmingham and then the scheme really took off as People & Planet groups across the country took up the challenge. There are now over 70 Fairtrade Universities and Colleges in the UK, with many more working towards status.

What is a Fairtrade University or College?

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All across the UK, students and university and college staff are doing fabulous things to make their campuses more ethical. And one of those fabulous things is around raising awareness and availability of products with the FAIRTRADE Mark.

A Fairtrade University or College is one that has made a commitment to supporting and using Fairtrade. They ensure that Fairtrade products are available in as many places as possible and they raise awareness of Fairtrade and the benefits that it brings to producers in developing countries with students and staff.

Why become a Fairtrade University or College?

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"When Brookes became the world’s first Fairtrade University, it was an important step towards large institutions recognising their global responsibility. We were proud to be a part of that. And we were proud to be able to initiate a wave of Fairtrade Universities throughout the UK…Thousands of people pass through the doors of Oxford Brookes every year and each one of those people is a potential ambassador to go out and spread the word about Fairtrade throughout the world. The awareness that this is raising among the students and staff at the university will help make a better future for producers in the developing world. We are delighted that Oxford city itself is now a part of that movement and will be spreading the same message.”

Rex Knight, Deputy Vice Chancellor, Oxford Brookes University.

Annual Fairtrade Universities and Colleges Conference

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This annual conference hosted by a different university or college each year is open to students, catering staff, academic staff and NUS representatives. The purpose of the conference is to give delegates the opportunity to find out more about the scheme, share ideas, receive Fairtrade campaign updates and meet Fairtrade companies.

"I found this event very valuable. Lots of good ideas were thrown about and it was nice to meet other people who are active in this area"
Lucy Whalley, Student, Birmingham University

Read the highlights from the Universities and Colleges Conference 2008.