To become a Fairtrade University or College

---

The Student Union (or equivalent) and the university or college authorities both create a Fairtrade policy incorporating these five goals, to be reviewed annually.

Fairtrade products including food and cotton are made available for sale in all campus shops. Fairtrade foods are used in all cafés/restaurants/bars on campus. The availability and use of Fairtrade products throughout the university/college increases year on year.

The university/college and Student Union commits to sourcing Fairtrade cotton products in their purchasing (for example staff uniforms, course wear and merchandise).

Fairtrade products are served at all meetings/events hosted by the university/college and the Student Union (or equivalent), including internal management meetings. Tea, coffee and sugar to be served as standard with other Fairtrade products being introduced (e.g. biscuits, juice and fruit) where possible.

Campaigns are run on campus to increase the understanding of Fairtrade and consumption of Fairtrade products. This should include student events, actions and trade justice awareness raising as well as integrating Fairtrade into subject teaching where appropriate.

A Fairtrade Steering Group is established, with representatives from the student body, university/college staff and catering or procurement department (where this is part of a wider ethical procurement committee there should be a Fairtrade working group who either meet termly or who cover Fairtrade comprehensively in the wider meeting). Student representation in the steering group is essential.

These goals have recently been updated to ensure all universities and colleges achieve the best Fairtrade campaign.

Check out our top tips for help on fulfilling these goals.

Individual colleges at collegiate universities can gain Fairtrade status – Download the guidelines (PDF).