As I type this blog entry I am sipping on a cup of my morning coffee. It tastes especially good to me, because it is a fair trade product. "Fair Trade is a market-based approach to sustainable development, seeking to empower millions of disadvantaged producers worldwide while protecting the environment for future generations." You can read a much more in-depth article about it here.

I am far from perfect, but I do strive to be an ethical consumer. I buy fair trade products when available, and I will not knowingly purchase any product that comes from a factory farm even if it means spending a little extra money. I support local farmers, and try to only buy Ontario produce. I use water and vinegar to clean with instead of harsh chemicals. I rarely go to Walmart, and I won't buy my clothes there because I don't want to take the chance I'm wearing something that was sewn by child labourers. And I will try to buy Canadian made products because of our strong labour laws. I also refuse to shop at Urban Outfitters because of the extreme politics, and views held by owner/founder Richard Hayne that does not jibe with my own. I cannot morally shop from someone who financially supports staunch anti-gay politicians. I strongly support Canadian business, especially the small local independent shops. I buy second hand and thrift often.

I will, and have purposefully done without, non-essential items if it means my purchase will comprise my morals, and ethics.

I do all this because whether or not it is making a difference I personally feel better about the choices I'm making, and I do believe if we all shopped this way we would have a far fairer and more positive marketplace.

If you feel like I do you will want to have a listen to this radio program entitled Mr. Daisey and the Apple Factory. It is enlightening, and will have you thinking about the actual price being paid in order for us to enjoy cheap electronics.

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