When you shop, is it enough that the item you are purchasing is organic or fair trade?

"Being an informed and ethical consumer can often mean you’re going to have to do a little excavating to get to the bottom of what a product, and company is really about. There are many socially relevant considerations such as: sustainable manufacturing, animal rights, Fair Trade, and sweat shop issues that deserve due diligence.

Looking for some direction? Check out Section II of The Omnivore’s Dilemma, for an in-depth discussion of just what “certified organic” means. Again, don’t let “organic” labels fool you into believing a company has all-around good ethics. A company may not follow Fair Trade or sweatshop-free practices, for example. Be sure to consider questions such as: how is it made, who makes it, who tests it, what’s in it, from where does it come, and how is it transported?

There’s also New American Dream, a site that “helps Americans consume responsibly to protect the environment, enhance quality of life, and promote social justice.” Or Cradle to Cradle, by, William McDonough for some truly deep enlightenment on corporate ethics and sustainability."

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