Fairtrade stamp printed on linen sack
The University of Plymouth is dedicated to achieving Fairtrade Accreditation. 
This commitment involves advocating for fair prices, improving working conditions, promoting local sustainability, and ensuring fairtrade terms for farmers and workers in our procurement processes and supplier partnerships.
 

Our commitment

At the University, our commitment to fostering a sustainable food culture extends across our catering and retail outlets and services, guided by our comprehensive sustainable food plan.
We prioritise offering Fairtrade products wherever feasible and collaborate with local food suppliers to showcase the availability of seasonal, local, and organic food options. Explore our local suppliers map for more information.
Our pursuit of Fairtrade Accreditation involves several key objectives:
  • Creating and sharing our Fairtrade Policy
  • Expanding the assortment of Fairtrade products in our catering and hospitality offerings
  • Organising promotional campaigns and events throughout the year
  • Participating in Fairtrade Fortnight annually.

Statement of intent

In line with the University of Plymouth’s 12-point climate action plan, we are increasing the provision of local, sustainable food and reducing our reliance on imports.
Where this is not possible, we are committed to following the Fairtrade Principles of better prices, decent working conditions, local sustainability, and fair terms of trade for farmers and workers, both within the UK and elsewhere. We will purchase products with the Fairtrade mark where viable. This reassures us that the product was produced in the most sustainable way and ensures that the University finds a sustainable balance in our food provision between local and Fairtrade drivers.
We are passionate about educating our staff, students, and our local community about the benefits of local produce, Fairtrade, trade justice and ethical consumption. 

Events 

In recognition and celebration of Fairtrade, we annually observe Fairtrade Fortnight with a series of events, promotions, and competitions. Stay updated on upcoming campus cafes events or follow us on Facebook.
Fairtrade food and drink on campus
 

Get involved

We are seeking students interested in sustainable living and Fairtrade practices to join our working group dedicated to achieving Fairtrade Accreditation and promoting ethical and fair practices throughout our services. 
Here's how you can participate:
Attend Fairtrade-themed events on campus, which you can find listed on our campus cafes events page or via our Facebook page. 
Join our Fairtrade University working group to contribute to our objectives for Accreditation status. We welcome student contributions and event ideas. For more information, please contact fairtrade@plymouth.ac.uk.
Explore Fairtrade, trade justice, or ethical consumption issues as part of your coursework or dissertations, both on and off-campus.
If you're a local school, college, or business interested in support from the University of Plymouth to explore or achieve Fairtrade Accreditation, please email us at fairtrade@plymouth.ac.uk.
Teaching staff interested in incorporating Fairtrade issues into their teaching, learning, or assessment can participate in the annual Global Goals Teach-In, held in March. Reach out to the provided email address for more information.
Get involved with the sustainability agenda at the University. As a student you can share ideas for improvements at UPSU through your student representatives
Continue to champion Fairtrade through your purchases both on and off campus. If you're interested in getting involved or hosting an event, please reach out to us at fairtrade@plymouth.ac.uk.

Fairtrade University and College Award Audits – Volunteers needed!

Become an auditor for the Fairtrade University and College Award and help us monitor our progress towards Fairtrade University status.
Volunteer auditors conduct an audit of the university to review the efforts to embed and promote Fairtrade and wider ethical consumption. You will receive full training
via Zoom, delivered by SOS-UK and the Fairtrade Foundation, where you will learn about trade justice issues and how they apply to the university, as well as develop professional and analytical skills. You will learn how to conduct an audit, and then get the opportunity to conduct the audit of the university with other volunteer auditors.
Zoom training will take place during three identical sessions (you only need to attend one) running on         
  • Tuesday 16 April, 10am to 12.30pm (breaks included), or 
  • Thursday 18 April, 1pm to 3.30pm (breaks included)  
Find out more and apply through our short form, on or before the deadline of Sunday 24 March. You will hear back from us, if chosen, by 28 March.