Ethical Purchasing

“Ethical purchasing put simply is buying things that are made ethically by companies that act ethically. Ethical can be a subjective term both for companies and consumers, but in its truest sense means without harm to or exploitation of humans, animals or the environment.” (from Ethical Consumer, UK)

Many are familiar with the fact that the Rochdale Pioneers started the first co-operative store in 1844 to sell unadulterated goods during the industrial revolution. This was a time when factory workers were being ripped off by the general stores which were often run by the factories themselves. During this time the Rochdale Pioneers first put in writing the values they held, values which included equality, equity, solidarity, and their belief in honesty, openess, social responsibility, and caring for others.

In our time, co-operatives in the UK have been pioneers of their own right. They have been the first stores to bring Fair Trade items to the UK. Inspired by their example, the BCICS initiated the first Ethical Purchasing Forum held on Vancouver Island in February, 2007.

The idea of the Ethical Purchasing Forum was to further dialogue on the role of co-ops and fair trade in our local region. The forum was designed to bring together co-operatives, businesses, activists, faith groups, academics, indigenous organisations, farmers, labour groups and politicians to enhance ethical trade in the Victoria region.

Check out the Ethical Purchasing Forum website for more information.