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Hadrian's Wall goes Fairtrade

A campaign has been launched to make Hadrian’s Wall a Fairtrade zone.

BBC newsman and Fairtrade Foundation patron, George Alagiah, is launching the push to make it the world first designated Fairtrade area.

Hadrian’s Wall Country covers an area 10 miles on either side of the World Heritage Site all the way from South Shields, South Tyneside, to Bowness-on-Solway in Cumbria and down the coast to Ravenglass.

The group will be encouraging more businesses from the World Heritage Site tosupport the use of Fairtrade products and highlight the commercial benefits of using the Fairtrade Mark.

George Alagiah said: “I’m always amazed by the energy, innovation and commitment I’m greeted with when I meet Fairtrade supporters and activists and this campaign is no exception and an exciting Fairtrade first.

“By bringing together both Northumberland, Newcastle and Cumbria County Councils, Hadrian’s Wall Heritage Ltd and businesses, schools and community organisations in towns and villages along the Wall, the area would become the first world heritage site to achieve Fairtrade Zone status.

“I’m delighted to see organisations and residents come together to call for Fairtrade and build on the work of committed Fairtrade Towns like Carlisle, Newcastle, Brampton and Hexham and wish them every success as they work towards achieving Fairtrade Zone status for such a beautiful and iconic area of the UK.”

Julie Sloan, Sustainable Development Officer at Hadrian’s Wall Heritage Ltd, said: “We’re a key supporter of the Hadrian’s Wall Country Fairtrade campaign and wish the group every success with the launch.

“Following on from the success of the Hadrian’s Wall Locally Produced scheme, Fairtrade status for Hadrian’s Wall Country would help to enhance our reputation as a destination that celebrates and encourages sustainable development in one of England’s most unique landscapes.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .