Our commitment to Fairtrade

The University of Liverpool and the Liverpool Guild of Students are committed to achieving Fairtrade accreditation as part of the SOS-UK Fairtrade University and College Award (2023-2025 cohort).

Through this initiative, we embed Fairtrade principles into our university’s operations, including:

Leadership and Strategy - Aligning our policies with Fairtrade values.

Research and Curriculum - Incorporating Fairtrade into teaching and research.

Procurement and Catering - Prioritising Fairtrade certified products.

Campaigning and Influencing - Raising awareness and driving change on campus.

This commitment supports the University’s Sustainable Food Policy, ensuring that staff, students, and visitors have access to ethical and sustainable food choices. By purchasing Fairtrade products, we uphold social responsibility, guaranteeing fair wages, safe working conditions, and environmentally friendly practices.

United Nations Sustainable Development Goals 

Our efforts directly contribute to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs):

SDG 1 - No Poverty

SDG 8 - Decent Work & Economic Growth 

SDG 12 - Responsible Consumption & Production

Sustainability Skills Survey 

Evidence from the Sustainability Skills Survey, conducted by Liverpool Guild of Students in November 2024, provides a compelling backdrop for introducing Fairtrade Accreditation at the University of Liverpool: 

64% of students stated that knowing their place of study took action to limit its negative impact on the environment and society would make them proud to be a student there. 

81% of students either agreed or strongly agreed that sustainable development is something which places of study and their students' unions should actively incorporate and promote. 

53% of students noted that human rights had been covered in their teaching, 47% cultural diversity and equality, 38% consumerism, global and ethical trade and 31% corporate social responsibility and business ethics. 

By working towards Fairtrade accreditation, we are embedding a culture of ethical awareness and sustainability, driving positive change within our university community and beyond.

Read our Fairtrade Commitment of Intent.