Community Sanitation

Project Description: Workers voted to invest their Fair Trade Community Development Funds to build and install waste and recycling bins for the community.
Reason for the Project: The Colombian community of 300 where this Fair Trade Certified banana farm is located has never had waste disposal containers. Residents had to leave unsorted trash in bags along the road for collection, leading to waste and pollution, with animals often getting into the trash bags.
Project Outcome: The Fair Trade Committee coordinated with the local community for alignment on needs and logistics. The area now has three waste drop-off locations where residents can deposit bags - separated into trash and recyclables - in a secure bin, reducing litter and making recycling possible. Fair Trade Premiums also funded recycling trainings for community members to maximize use of this new infrastructure.