Another important stage in developing Fairtrade came in 2005 with the introduction of certified cotton. These products, which include clothing and cotton wool, are made from cotton grown by small farmers in India, Peru, Mali and Senegal. Such farmers, like many other agricultural commodity producers, are at the sharp end of exploitation and injustice in international trade. Fairtrade certification brings them the guarantee of a minimum price plus a further premium to be used for community development projects.

Fairtrade cotton products can be purchased in Chelmsford at Marks & Spencer, Debenhams and Monsoon. Tell us if you hear of another outlet.

Make Fairtrade A Daily Habit

• Wake up to Fairtrade coffee, tea, fruit juice or muesli

• Put on a T-shirt made from Fairtrade ceritificated cotton

• Snack on a Fairtrade biscuit or fresh fruit

• Give Fairtrade flowers, chocolates or wine to someone you love

• Wind down at the end of the day with a cup of Fairtrade cocoa or a glass of Fairtrade wine or rum.

If you would like to comment on our activities, send us your ideas on the best way to develop Fairtrade in Chelmsford, provide us with information, or any other news about Fairtrade, please go to our Discussion Forum or Tel. 01245 601373.