Tomorrow morning's coffee for 3,500 staff and 13,500 students at the University of Aberdeen will be awarded for supporting Fairtrade, as Aberdeen becomes Scotland's largest Fairtrade location.
Whether it's lunch at the University's Zeste Café or coffee on the way to the Library, the University offers a range of Fairtrade products across the Campus. The University has a long-standing commitment to supporting Fairtrade products and this will be recognised by the City Council at a Fairtrade civic reception on Friday, March 5. The events forms part of a nationwide Fairtrade Fortnight of celebrations.
The University's award of Fairtrade status compliments its commitment to develop and implement policies to promote sustainable development. Initiatives include: a campus biodiversity audit; the introduction of paper recycling; a review of energy and water use; and considerations of how sustainability can be incorporated in the curriculum.
Vice-Principal for Teaching and Learning, Professor Dominic Houlihan, who champions sustainable developments across the University said: "The University is pleased to receive recognition as a supporter of Fairtrade and to contribute to the City's success in becoming Scotland's largest Fairtrade location. Supporting Fairtrade is another example of the University incorporating responsible and sustainable actions into our daily business."
Students aswell as staff, have been making an educated choice and buying Fairtrade. For over 5 years, the University's Shared Planet Society has run a Fair Trade Cafe which has become a regular part of student life on Campus. Jenny Duncan, President of the Students' Association said: "Students drink a lot of coffee, especially around exam time. Fairtrade gives students the opportunity to make a difference through the products they buy."