Society
Fair Trade, Handmade, Sustainable, Giving Back and how we choose
We make sure all companies have a sustainable business model. They must employ disadvantaged individuals making products. Please see Our Views for more information.
Some organizations use the term handmade. This was our first requirement in order to be considered. Handmade items have a unique personal touch and decrease environmental impact. Not using factories decreases environmental impact. Employment increases because everything has to be made by someone.
Once it’s determined the items were handmade, the next step is to determine how they support people. Some organizations sell items made by artists in the country and pay them. This concept is also beneficial. However the biggest need exists for people who have lost hope and do not have the resources to make products. The people need the skills and supplies. A company that goes into villages and trains random people would rank higher than an organization that just employs artists.
Charities compared to Social Enterprises usually end up helping the most from this standpoint. You just need to confirm that they have a sustainable business model. That way the support does not just end. You quickly discover that parts of Charities could be considered Social Enterprises when sustainable business models are used.