Ness Bridge to shine for Fairtrade
For the third year in a row, the Ness Bridge in Inverness will be lit up in blue and green Fairtrade colours for three days from today.
It will mark Fairtrade Fortnight which runs to March 12.
Thanks to Fairtrade, farmers and growers throughout the Global South earn a fair wage and an extra community premium to help support community projects such as improved health or childcare, education and training or agricultural improvements to cope with changing weather.
A Fairtrade spokeswoman said: "While contributing least to climate change, countries such as Kenya, Honduras and Sri Lanka are hit hardest and suffer from extreme weather patterns including droughts, floods, increased temperatures, soil depletion and tropical cyclones.
"Some of the foods we enjoy most such as bananas, cocoa, coffee and sugar are most at risk from these fluctuating weather patterns. The future survival of the world’s most popular foods hangs in the balance unless we achieve inclusive and equitable climate solutions.
"Without our support for fairer prices, many farmers will find it even harder to tackle the challenges in the future. These farmers have a critical role in addressing climate change and have the expertise and knowledge to do so – they just need a fair wage and support for the changes required.
"And all of us, right here in Inverness can help to make a difference by purchasing Fairtrade sugar, tea, coffee, chocolate, bananas, roses, and many other products in our local shops. Your shopping choices means a more sustainable future for farmers and can help to ensure that some of our favourite foods will continue to be available."