News | 12 September 2024
Cardiff Metropolitan University has been recogised in the Fairtrade University and College Awards 2024 and achieved three stars in the in the Food Made Good Standard.
The University gained Fairtrade status in recognition of its commitment to promoting ethical consumerism and pushing for fairer wages for farmers and workers.
The Fairtrade programme supports institutions to embed ethical and sustainable practices through their curriculums, procurement, research and campaigns.
The Fairtrade University and College Award has been awarded to UK universities and colleges championing Fairtrade since 2003, with 22 universities receiving the award in 2024. It is jointly delivered by the Fairtrade Foundation and SOS-UK.
In addition to the standard award, institutions can meet optional criteria to achieve additional 'stars' for the award, with Cardiff Met awarded an additional one-star status. The award will remain valid for two years.
Cardiff Met has also achieved three stars in the Food Made Good Standard - the only 360-degree, holistic sustainability accreditation which evaluates impact across the three pillars of Sourcing, Society and Environment. The University received exceptional scores with 98% on Society and 95% in Environment and was praised for it's work to improve the health impact of menus, and efforts to create a diverse, inclusive and welcoming workplace.
Rachel Roberts, Sustainability Engagement Manager at Cardiff Metropolitan University, said: “We are delighted to be recognised in the Fairtrade University and College Award 2024 and Food Made Good Standard. These awards are recognition that the University has embedded ethical and sustainable practices throughout our curriculum, procurement, research and campaigns."
Universities have carried out a range of activities, from increasing the range of Fairtrade products sold on campus to give students greater choice, to influencing and connecting with local campaign groups.
Sarah Brazier, Head of Campaigns at the Fairtrade Foundation, said: “This year marks 30 years of Fairtrade products on shelves in the UK and sees our biggest ever cohort of universities taking part in the Fairtrade Universities scheme.
“We are so excited to continue our work with students across the UK, whether that is the universities that come back to voice their support year after year, or the newcomers to our campaign for change. We hope even more universities take part next year and continue to engage with and promote Fairtrade on their campuses."
Read more about how Cardiff Met supports Fairtrade each year on the University webpage.
For more information on what Fairtrade is and why Cardiff Met support Fairtrade products, go to the Fairtrade Foundation Website.
Read more about the Food Made Good Standard on their website.
