Trading activities in Marburg continue to be conducted in an equitable manner
Marburg Renewed as a Fair Trade Town
Marburg, a university town in Germany, has once again been recognised as a "Fair Trade Town" for another two years. This renewal was announced at the second Marburg Chocolate Festival on September 27.
The Fair Trade Town campaign aims to help cities and municipalities implement the sustainable development goals adopted by the United Nations in 2015. In Marburg, the focus has been on fair chocolate and cocoa, addressing issues such as poor pay and child labor in conventional cocoa cultivation.
The Marburg Fair Trade Steering Group, consisting of various local organisations and individuals, played a significant role in retaining the title. The group includes Solawi Marburg, Weltladen Marburg, Fachdienst Umwelt, Klima- und Naturschutz, Fairer Handel, Marburger Weltladen, and dedicated volunteers. They collaborate with local organisations like the World Shop, EKKW, Micha Initiative, and the retail sector.
One of the initiatives taken by the Steering Group is the creation of the city map "Fair Shopping, Fair Eating, Fair Dressing in Marburg". This map provides information on fair trade, relevant product labels, and logos, making it easier for residents and visitors to make ethical shopping choices.
The second Marburg Chocolate Festival on September 27 also featured an information stand on fair trade. Visitors had the opportunity to participate in a cocoa quiz, chocolate tasting quiz, spin the wheel, and receive small fair surprises.
The idea to apply for the "Fair Trade Town" title first came from the Marburg Weltladen and its supporting association in 2009. Since then, the Marburg Weltladen has been driving the commitment to fair trade in the city.
Marburg was the first city in Hesse and the fourth in Germany to become a "Fair Trade Town" in 2009. Since then, the number of Fair Trade Towns in Germany has grown to over 820, and worldwide, there are over 2000 in 36 countries.
The university town of Marburg also supports climate justice. The Steering Group raises awareness of these issues through events like dressing up as Easter bunnies to draw attention to unfair Easter chocolate. Marburg Fairtrade Town also supported the visit by funding travel costs, allowing guests to speak at the Fair Week 2023 in Berlin on the topic of climate justice.
In 2023, coffee producers from Nicaragua were guests at Marburg Town Hall, speaking about their work and challenges in coffee cultivation, and the impact of climate change.
Mayor Nadine Bernshausen expressed her gratitude to the Steering Group for their efforts in promoting fair trade and raising awareness. Visitors can subscribe to the newsletter of the University Town of Marburg for regular updates on town hall news and city life.
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