Fair Trade standards are designed to support the sustainable development of small-scale producer and farm worker organizations in low- and middle-income countries. These rigorous standards incorporate a holistic combination of social, economic, and environmental criteria.
By choosing B Corp and Fairtrade International certifications, companies are demonstrating their commitment to sustainability and social impact. They are also raising public awareness of the connection between our changing climate and people's livelihoods, and how businesses can act on both global challenges.
As consumers increasingly look to spend their money with companies that consider social and environmental impact, B Corp and Fairtrade International certifications together indicate companies that have been evaluated for their positive impact on people and the planet. B Corp's B The Change reform spoke with leaders from two companies that hold both certifications to learn more about their mission and their hopes to expand it in the future.
As a brand that carries such certifications, Terra Thread’s sustainable bags are made based on the brand’s mission to create organic and Fairtrade cotton bed and bath products for individuals, businesses, and non-profits. In this way, Terra Thread ensures that its supply chain practices are traceable and transparent, and most importantly, ethical.
The Best Bags for the Planet
Terra Thread’s backpacks, fanny packs, and cosmetic bags are stylish, versatile, and above all sustainable. Its vegan bags are the perfect eco-essential, made from 14.5 oz. organic cotton canvas. Highly durable, the bags feature an internal compartment for laptops, tablets, or documents, as well as an external front pocket with a zipper to keep items secure.
Its reusable bags are made with Fair Trade Certified Cotton to ensure the safety, health and overall well-being of cotton farmers and the environment. In addition, our bags are produced in a fair trade certified factory in India. U.S. Fair Trade principles include safety and health, the advancement of people, and the protection of the environment.
Its canvas bags are GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified, which holds the brand to strict social and environmental standards throughout the post-harvest process. The standard prohibits the use of toxic chemicals and includes strong labor provisions, as well as a ban on child labor.
How Terra Thread Gives Back with Gallant International
Tera Thread supports renewable energy and reforestation projects that reduce the impact of emissions by reducing or sequestering carbon. These projects also have economic, social, and environmental benefits such as creating green jobs.
The brand also believes firmly in giving back. It supports America's food network of 200 food banks and 60,000 food pantries and meal programs to help provide nutritious food to children, families, and seniors in the United States. Through the proceeds of Terra Thread’s range of sustainable backpacks, bags, and accessories, Gallant International contributes to Feeding America's campaign to end hunger in the United States. Gallant has so far contributed more than one million meals to people in need.
Gallant International Inc. based in California, creates bags and accessories made from organic and Fairtrade-certified cotton products. Founder Vik Giri says the company works directly with Fairtrade-certified farmers in India and pays them premium prices. By pre-financing the next harvest, Gallant also helps farmers buy organic cotton seeds.
B Corporation Principles
Having been in this business for more than a decade, Terra Thread has found that B Corp's guiding principles have helped it implement and achieve many pressing social and environmental issues we face today. For example, its products are carbon neutral, its farmers and workers are paid fair wages and prices for their products and labor, and its team members are taught to live sustainable lifestyles by wasting less, consuming less, recycling and reusing.