UW-Oshkosh promises to buy fair trade products
OSHKOSH, Wis. (AP) — The University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh is embracing fair trade.
Chancellor Richard Wells says it will buy fair trade products whenever possible. They will be used in university dining, catering and department offices.
Fair trade products are produced under sustainable, decent and fair labor conditions.
UW-Oshkosh officials say it will follow guidelines established by European universities committed to fair trade.
Wells made the announcement Tuesday during the university’s opening ceremonies. He says committing to fair trade is the right thing to do.
Environmental studies director David Barnhill says he expects other American universities to join the movement promoting social justice and environmental responsibility and helping the poor.
Senior Jonathan Brandt of Waupaca says he thinks the effort is a great idea that will please most students.
Sep 5, 2008 at 11:22 a.m.
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WAY TO GO UWO!!!!!
Sep 4, 2008 at 9:52 p.m.
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One of fair trade goals is to address low prices by guaranteeing that producers recieve a fair price. This sounds great but the agrgument against fair trade is that low prices are due to overproduction of some commodity goods. Price sends signals to producers of what crops to grow. Paying a above the market price prevents pricing signals from getting through thus encouraging more overproduction thereby lowering the price for every other farmer that is not able to enrole in a very small program.
Fair Trade is a great idea, but be careful of how the marketplace is affected. I love the idea of the consumer wallets rather than lawmakers telling the marketplace what to do.
Sep 4, 2008 at 4:36 p.m.
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I expect nothing less from the best state University Wisconsin has to offer.
Sep 4, 2008 at 1:50 p.m.
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I fine example to follow and, what we expect from leaders.
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