Actions we can take in Japan right now to promote fair trade

When we choose products, we are unknowingly weaving the stories of the other side of the world. Climate change, child labor, poverty, deforestation… What can we do? What we want to do is to make purchases that create a positive difference in the world.

The second Saturday in May is called “World Fair Trade Day,” and events related to fair trade are held worldwide. In line with this, May is also called “Fair Trade Month” in Japan. Let’s look at the action we can take.

Participate in “Million Action Campaign”

The “Million Action Campaign 2022” aims to achieve a total of 1.5 million actions that anyone can participate in, such as purchasing products, posting on social media and participating in events related to fair trade throughout Japan.

 

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This is an opportunity for many people to enjoy and learn about fair trade. Shops, restaurants, companies, schools and local governments from all over Japan also participate in this event, offering various exciting opportunities to support Japan’s fair trade industry. For example, here are some ways to get involved during the event.

• Buy a product
• Eat at the store
• Enter for prizes
• Join an event
• Post your action on social media
• Participate in “One Comment, One Action”

One Comment, One Action asks participants to send supportive messages to companies that deal in fair trade products or to write their wishes and requests regarding fair trade. This action takes only one minute to complete.

You can choose your action from the campaign website.

Quality and stylish fair trade products promote sustainable shopping

In most cases, people buy charity products because they “feel sorry for people in developing countries,” and this rarely leads to subsequent purchases. In contrast, fair trade products are characterized by high-quality designs that buyers honestly want.

Next month, SHINSEI Corporation will launch “Chocola Meets,” using cacao purchased through Craft Chocolate Fair Trade, with a portion of the proceeds benefiting the artists. The unique packaging depicted by the artists makes you want to pick up the product. As a result, your purchase supports both the activities of artists and fair trade chocolate.

Donations and the purchase of charity items are certainly great but can be difficult to sustain. Instead, it is more sustainable to simply seek out fair trade products in your daily shopping. Fair trade represents a significant first step toward a sustainable future, and the impact grows bigger as more people get involved.