Ripon and Leeds Church of England Diocese has been awarded Fairtrade status by the Fairtrade Foundation. Over 60% of parishes have now pledged to use Fairtrade coffee and tea, and to support and publicise Fairtrade when appropriate. The award 
comes four years after Diocesan Synod agreed a Minute supporting Fairtrade and is an affirmation of the hard work of many individuals and small groups across the diocese.
"I am delighted that the diocese has won the Fairtrade award" commented Bishop John Packer. "This is a mark of our commitment to those in most need throughout the world and our desire for deeper justice in trade relations. I hope that all parishes will necome involved in the Fairtrade movement."
PCC’s and parishioners from Aysgarth to Wyther, from Barningham to Bramley are supporting this movement, recognising that injustice and poverty must be challenged, and that Fairtrade offers one small way in which we can begin to contribute to a fairer world.
Producers who supply Fairtrade products are inspected and certified by Fairtrade. They receive a minimum price that covers the cost of sustainable production and an extra premium that is invested in social or economic development projects.
There are over 470 Fairtrade towns in the UK, with Ripon recently joining Harrogate and Leeds. Sales of Fairtrade goods have grown from an estimated retail value of just £16m in 1998 to over £800m last year,
Harriet Lamb, executive director of the Fairtrade Foundation, said: ‘The Fairtrade Foundation’s mission is to ensure producers in the developing world get a fair price for their crops so farmers can build a sustainable future, provide new opportunities and reduce poverty in their communities. It is a mission that has seen remarkable success in the Fairtrade Foundation’s 15 years.
If you would like the World Development Officer to speak with your PCC about becoming a Fairtrade Church, please contact John Rutter on (01765) 605638 or at john@jcrutter.plus.com
