Fair trade Christmas Ideas

When shopping for Christmas gifts and other items around the holidays, we try to use all of our options. But, what we are looking for is quality and that can’t be compromised. One idea many people haven’t tried is fair trade items. Buying these items will help another person somewhere around the world.

The idea of fair trade is a fairly new one. It is less than twenty years old in its practice. The purpose is to help craftsman and artisans around the world, especially in underdeveloped countries to have their work recognized. By recognizing their work, they are helped to live a better life.

To ensure that profits are realized in the village or co-op where the products were made those who deal in fair trade merchandise buy directly from the product originators. There is no middleman waiting to get their share of the profits.

Those who deal with fair trade items also ensure that no other illegal activities are going on. If workers are abused or forced to make their goods under substandard conditions, the merchandise is not used. Also, proper eco friendly practices must be used in the creation of the items for sale. For farms, no use of harmful chemicals can play a part in crop production.

Products from several countries are featured in stores on and off line for sale. These items are sold at a fair price to you and a fair price to the people making them so that no one is cheated. Their beautiful handiwork is seen all over the world and is of the greatest quality. These artisans are true to their craft and practice to get the best products possible.

Many use recycled products to make their products. Some have developed cottage industries out of collecting recycled materials and creating something useful with them.

These individuals and cooperatives have created many items that we can use to decorate for the holidays where we live. They craft ornaments, figurines, unique gift items, and other products. Acquiring these items is easier than you think. They are as close as the Internet on your computer or the store down the street.

One store that carries fair trade products is Ten Thousand Villages. You can go to their website and join their mailing list. In their stores they feature products made from recycled materials and fair trade items from around the world. They can be found at www.tenthousandvillages.com.

Other stores on the Internet are also fair trade dealers. They showcase items for Christmas such as ornaments, baskets, nativity scenes, garland, and clothing. Here are a few websites to check out for your holiday needs:

* www.oneworldprojects.com
* http://shop.rupalee.com
* www.transfairusa.org

The last on the list is a site where you can go to find fair trade shops in your area and online.

Looking for something else this year? Maybe you just want to help someone out in the global community. Look for fair trade merchandise.