On Wednesday 2 October, the University’s School of Environment Education and Development  will host its annual Social Responsibility Lecture in the Cordingley Lecture Theatre, Humanities Bridgeford Street. This year’s event will celebrate the 30^th anniversary of the international Fairtrade movement and the University’s continued efforts to support a more ethical and sustainable world.

Fairtrade represents one of the world’s most recognisable initiatives working to improve labour and production standards across global supply chains. From small beginnings, Fairtrade is now an international movement working in partnership with 2 million farmers and workers across 70 countries to raise living standards, support livelihoods, invest in communities, and protect our shared environment.

Having received Fairtrade University status in 2005, this event will further the University’s work to raise awareness of issues surrounding ethical and sustainable consumption. We will be joined by a range of expert speakers, including Mike Gidney, CEO of the Fairtrade Foundation; Emily Pearce, Senior Sustainable Sourcing & International Development Manager at the Co-op; Joanna Abena Fianu, Chair of Fairtrade Lancashire; and the University of Manchester’s Stephanie Barrientos, Emeritus Professor at the Global Development Institute.

Professor Barrientos is the University’s leading expert on Fairtrade issues. As well as conducting impactful research into cocoa production, she was recently elected as a member of the Board of Trustees of the Fairtrade Foundation.

Panellists will discuss the achievements of Fairtrade in recent decades, as well as future goals and challenges. Attendees will gain insights into how they can make a difference and get involved with the Fairtrade movement. The lecture will start at 1.30pm and Fairtrade refreshments will be served from 1pm in the foyer of  the University’s Humanities Bridgeford Street Building.

• Sign up for a free ticket.