Sustainability newsletter issue 4
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Fairtrade beyond the Fortnight - help us save our status!
Fairtrade Fortnight is coming up and the university is getting stuck in. This year, we are reviving our fairtrade steering group and instigating more student-led action. This is essential, as the university’s Fairtrade status is about to be revoked due to a lack of student engagement. This status is important for showing that we take our ethical responsibilities seriously. To lose it would be a sorry tale.
This year, the Fairtrade Foundation is asking us all to Take a Step, so we will be petitioning to get more Fairtrade products on the shelves of Student Union shops. We have asked ourselves what a Fairtrade University would look like and think that it would mean much more visibility, showing that we really are committed across the board, not just when selling coffee and tea. But we would like your views as well, so look out for stalls outside Student Union outlets and join the discussion on the University of Brighton Fairtrade Action Group facebook page. Fairtrade Fortnight starts on the 27th February, let’s take the step together.
Why Fairtrade?
The speculative trading of food commodities leaves developing countries with a raw deal, leading to serious social and economic crises. This has historically locked developing countries into poverty. Products that carry the FAIRTRADE Mark are certified to provide a minimum price to producers in developing worlds, acting as a safety net for when markets fall below a sustainable level and the price of commodities doesn’t even cover production costs. On top of this, the Fairtrade premium allows communities to invest in sustainable development projects, enhancing social, economic and environmental conditions. Yes, this has transformed people’s lives, proving that the current system doesn’t work. But Fairtrade cannot continue without pressure from western consumers.
So what can you do?
- Sign our e-petition to get more products in student union shop shelves.
- Help us save our Fairtrade status in one click by liking our Facebook page.
- Get involved by joining the UoB Fairtrade Action Group. email: sustainability@brighton.ac.uk for details.
Also if anyone runs or takes a course that involves projects along the theme of trade justice, we’d like to know to help us with our long term engagement strategy.
Fairtrade Fortnight 2012 events:
- Step into Fairness - Market, live music and food tasting event
Jubilee Square Saturday, 03 March 2012, 10:00 - 15:00 - Swing Dance Party
“Come and enjoy a free glass of wine and the joys of a Fairtrade chocolate fountain whilst showing your Swing Dance moves!”
Mandela Hall, Falmer house, University of Sussex
Tuesday, February 28, 2012 8:00pm until 10:00pm
Green Week 2012
The University of Brighton Green Week is taking place from 5 - 11 March this year. This is the second Green Week running and lots of exciting events are taking place to help us all learn, think and act sustainability.
It's a week if learning and of action. It is organised to raise awareness of climate change and what we as an institution already do to minimise our impact but also what all of us as individuals can do.
Join the rest of the university community at eye-opening film screenings, inspiring talks, litter picking sessions or free bicycle maintenance at all Brighton campuses.
The list of events is growing, and you can still get involved or give us ideas.
Cycling for a better future for southern Africa
In an Olympic year when British cycling is set to hit the headlines, cycling enthusiasts will be getting on their bikes to help southern African students get much needed qualifications in nursing, engineering and teaching.
The University of Brighton's second 40-mile cycle ride from Brighton to Hastings takes place in March. The money raised goes to the Southern African Scholarship Fund.
The fund was set up in 1987 by the University of Brighton's Students' Union to help the development of South Africa and its neighbouring countries, following the devastating effects of apartheid. Over the years, it has supported trainee teachers, doctors, nurses and engineers on postgraduate short professional courses that will benefit their community when they return home.
The ride, between the university's Brighton and Hastings campuses, leaves at 9am from the Manor House in Lewes Road, Moulsecoomb, on Sunday 11 March. The route is on minor roads and cycle paths via beautiful parts of the Sussex countryside, passing by Middle Farm, Arlington Reservoir, the Pevensey Flats, Cooden Beach and De Le Warr Pavilion along the way.
University staff, graduates and students are signing up for the ride and members of the public are being invited to join in. Volunteers are wanted to help on the day.
To sign up and receive your sponsorship pack, contact Tessa Gooding at: development@brighton.ac.uk or 01273 641841.