The Fair Trade Company Jepara Chair Review

We like:

The comfiness; the solid build quality; the attention to green and ethical detail

We don't like:

The lack of independent auditing or eco labels; the fact you'd expect a slightly more luxurious product for this money

SmartPlanet judgement:

It's a bold move to make fair trade furniture that helps farmers and craftsman earn a fair wage before the arrival of an official standard for chairs, tables and storage. So full marks to the Fairtrade Furniture Co for trailblazing, and for producing a well-made and handsome chair. We're inclined to be generous towards this chair's lack of official eco labelling and independent auditing because of the company founders' track records, but wood that's certified sustainable, official fair trade status and organic cotton all need to follow soon to maintain credibility.

As you sit reading this, it's unlikely you're worrying much about the livelihoods and wages of the people who assembled the chair that's stopping you from dropping, Wile E. Coyote-style, to the floor. This new 'fair trade' chair, however, hopes to change that. Continue reading...

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