Most organisations buy tea, coffee and sugar for their staff and often cater for events. Some organisations operate a cafe and may be involved in growing and distributing food.

Organic, Local, Seasonal

Buying food and drink that is organic, grown locally and in season helps to protect the environment, boost our economy and often tastes better. Many organisations are now using Fairtrade products. However, many people are put off by the price of these more sustainably aware goods as they can be more expensive.
The price you pay reflects the fair wages paid to workers and the better farming methods that respect the land and biodiversity. The more people that support this way of buying, the quicker the prices will come down and become competitive.

Protecting the Environment

The majority of our food is currently produced through a chemical-based intensive agricultural system and is often flown in from all over the world. This way of farming damages the soil, decreases biodiversity levels and can cause water pollution. Buying local and organic products not only helps to protect the environment and encourage local jobs, they often have bags more flavour.
One of the biggest contributors to climate change is intensive cattle farming. UN figures suggest that meat production is responsible for about 18% of global carbon emissions. Reducing the amount of meat you eat and you have on offer at events will help to reduce your carbon footprint.

Investing in your local economy and community

If you can, purchase your goods from an independent supplier. Large supermarkets are gaining a monopoly over local services and this unequal competition is putting over 2,000 small local shops out of business every year. One well known supermarket controls over 30% of the grocery market in the UK and made over £3billion profits in 2010. Every little hurts!

Supporting a Fairer Global Society

Promoting a fair and just society is at the core of many organisations work. By buying Fairtrade products, organisations can demonstrate their commitment to supporting global social justice and sustainability. Fairtrade creates opportunities for producers and workers to earn a fair wage in exchange for their labour and to help to alleviate poverty.
Branded products first appeared in 1994 with the introduction of just 3 products! Now more than 3,000 products have been licensed to carry the Fairtrade mark including; tea, coffee, bananas, cocoa and honey products, wine, cotton and even flowers.

How can MERCi help your organisation?

• Sustainability benchmarking of your organisation
• Directory of sustainable goods and service providers in Greater Manchester
• Resources and tool-kits
• Ideas on how to involve your staff, volunteers, board, service users and customers
• Tailored training and workshops