Erlangen is a Fairtrade Town

“For us, fair trade and sustainable practices go hand in hand. In Erlangen, there are many dedicated people, organizations, companies, and institutions that are raising awareness of fair trade products and sustainable consumption in everyday life. Receiving this award once again shows that this commitment is alive and well in our city and is supported by all of us,” explains Mayor Jörg Volleth.

Local Commitment to Fair Trade

Erlangen is working alongside a broad local coalition to promote fair trade. The Fairtrade Steering Group, in which stakeholders from civil society, politics, and business collaborate, plays a key role in this effort. It develops and supports initiatives and events that raise awareness of Fairtrade and sustainability in the city.

One example is the Sustainability Route, part of the annual “Rädli” bike rally. Every May 1, residents can explore locations and offerings related to sustainability throughout the city. Fair and responsible options are also highlighted at sustainable events and in catering services. In addition, the steering group regularly organizes its own Fairtrade and sustainability campaigns.

Engaging with businesses and other local stakeholders is also a key part of its work. In October, the steering group is hosting a workshop on the topic of sports and sustainability. The focus will be on how sustainability can be practically implemented and further developed in sports.

Five Steps to Becoming a Fairtrade Town

The path to becoming a Fairtrade Town is based on five steps: A city council resolution establishes a binding commitment; a local Fairtrade team coordinates the effort; fair trade products become more visible; educational and outreach programs bring Fairtrade to life; and public relations efforts raise awareness of the issue within the local community.

Since 2009, Fairtrade Deutschland e. V. has awarded the “Fairtrade Town” title. Fairtrade Towns promote fair trade, connect key local stakeholders, and highlight fair public procurement. The campaign also supports the implementation of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 12, “Responsible Consumption and Production.”

Fair Trade in Erlangen

The commitment to fair trade in Erlangen takes many forms. The Fairtrade Steering Group coordinates and supports numerous activities and, together with its partners, continually generates new initiatives.

These include, among other things, campaigns and informational resources on fair trade, promoting Fairtrade products in everyday life, and collaborating with businesses, schools, organizations, and other institutions. Erlangen’s “Stattplan” also highlights sustainable and fair trade options throughout the city.

Another focus is on linking fair trade with sustainable development. At events and campaigns, care is taken to incorporate sustainability into the catering as well. For example, the “Rädli” highlights sustainability and fair trade offerings and supports sustainable events.

The Fairtrade Steering Group also participates in various campaigns and events to further embed the themes of fair trade, sustainable consumption, and global responsibility in the city’s community.

Working Together for Fair Trade and Sustainable Development

Fair trade thrives on the commitment of many people and organizations. Companies, stores, restaurants, schools, clubs, church congregations, educational institutions, and private individuals can all help to further integrate fair and sustainable options into everyday life.

The City of Erlangen supports this commitment and, together with the Fairtrade Steering Group and other partners, is continuously developing new projects and initiatives.

In doing so, Erlangen combines local action with global responsibility and contributes to the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals.

For more information on fair trade in Erlangen:

www.fairlangen.org