That's great CafeLotta, thanks for posting that.
Since reading an essay on Wikipedia on the perils of 'FairTrade' ( or unFairTrade, as I call it) I've tried to avoid it.
Although FairTrade has been the main source of organic beans, I think it's a pre-requisite for the scheme,
the higher prices paid for Direct Trade is going hand in hand with the development and implementation of more sustainable farming methods
and as more and more coffee farmers turn to sustainable or organic production then 'FairTrade' loses it's near monopoly.
To be fair tho' (pardon the pun!), FairTrade has raised awareness in the west that there is another side to the coffee world; the farmer.
A clever name………. well it's fair isn't it?? and a clever marketing tool…………..it makes us feel good…….right?? but FairTrade is ultimately failing those it was designed to help.
Typical of the western, corporate mentality, a system was devised that feels good, looks good, sells well but which profits the organisation
and it's many layers of administration rather than our 'brothers and sisters' whose lives and well being are at stake.
There is still a long way to go in placing a true value on green coffee and a long way to go in improving the lives of all coffee farmers,
rather than individuals. FairTrade has played it's part but now it's time for the west to stop whipping the lame horse, put it's money where it's mouth is and move on.
Checkout GreenBeanBay for the number of beans that can be tracked back to the grower, it's awesome!
I'll get off my soapbox now. ;-)