This is a new effort and more information will be added over time. Here is some information to get you started. And if you have information to share, please contact us by clicking here.
Used Items:
This is ideal for items that are currently difficult to find as fair trade. This includes clothing, electronics, cameras, household items, tools and more.
- Garage/yard/estate sales – check your local paper for listings of garage, yard or estate sales.
- Craigslist – check your local Craigslist for necessary items. Click here to find it.
- Ebay – you can find used items on Ebay, but some items are new so be careful to make sure they are local or fair trade.
- Consignment and used stores
- Thrift shops
- Free stores
- Swap meets
- Community toolbanks and sharing libraries. Visit ToolbankUSA to find one near you. Or create one in your neighborhood!
Local items:
Support local producers and local businesses, particularly the ones that treat their workers well and have sustainable ecological practices. These are typically the businesses hurt the most by rigged corporate trade agreements. You can define local as your surrounding area, your state/province, your region or your country depending on the item. Here are some websites to help you find local sellers. Suggest others that you know of.
- Farmer’s markets
- Farm directory by state: Eatwild.com
- Small independently-owned shops (ask them where they source their products)
- Buy local directories by state: Click here
- BuyLocal.net
- BeALocalist.org
- USA Love List – has information about where products are sourced and produced.
- American Sustainable Business Council
- GreenPages.org
You can also search online for needed products. Read about the companies you use before you buy and don’t hesitate to contact them with questions.
Fair trade items:
Buy directly from artisans around the world on Etsy.
Educate yourself at websites such as Organic Consumers’ Fair World Project and Global Exchange’s Fair Trade FAQ.
