We're into the second leg of fairtrade fortnight now, and there's still plenty to get involved with. I found to my surprise that the unlikely venue for many of these is Milton Keynes; the home of roundabouts, concrete cows and, it turns out, Sust: one of the most active fairtrade organisations in the country. So if you're local - or just passionate - why not drop in?
Sust was founded in 1997, and works with a number of groups to promote sustainability both locally and globally. The heart of the organisation is the Sust Shop, and this is where most of the events are taking place. All through the fortnight, tasting events are happening, offering shoppers the chance to sample fairtrade cookies, chocolate, tea, coffee and fruit. On Thursday (8th March), there'll be a fairtrade quiz, with the chance to win a trip to India.
Sust are also offering a far more personalised insight into the fairtrade movement, with chances to have coffee with the farmers who grew it. Tomorrow (Tues 6th) the shop will be visited by a Ghanaian representative to celebrate 50 years of the country's independence.
The fortnight will be rounded off with a Fairtrade Fiesta at MADCAP, Creed Street, Wolverton on Friday 9th March. Ghanaian drummers and dancers from Osagyefo Theatre will be performing at the Fairtrade Fiesta, an evening of music and dance from around the world. Tickets (£5 in advance, £4 concessions, £6 on door) on sale from Sust.
From: BEST OF 2008: Eco-friendy and sustainable shoes