Dining services is one of the central sustainability proponents on Missouri State’s campus. Chartwells in particular has made a point to try to be as ecologically conscious as possible. They use their platform as the largest food service to be fair across the bandwidth of sustainability.

Chartwells believes in their obligation to support fair food supply and food distribution.

They have recently made a commitment to support fair trade in their programs and services.

According to Quintin Eason, the Resident District Manager for Chartwells, Chartwells has made a commitment to support micro farms in other countries from which food is sourced.

This support looks like co-ops formed between the micro farms and ensure living wages are offered.

It also includes supporting small, female-owned businesses in these countries and ensuring equal opportunity and pay. Chartwells hopes to reduce economic disparity for everyone involved in global food production.

The fair trade agreement also increases options for micro loans for these farmers to develop the economy and help businesses grow. This growth will improve living conditions for communities surrounding micro farms as well.

Chartwells understands that micro farms have little to no negotiating power, so they use their platform to support equal pay for all.

For students, there is no increase in cost. Products are available across campus and support these micro farms when purchased.

Eason hopes to expand the program even more and increase Chartwells sustainable impact.

As far as Sustainable Development Goals go, this fair trade initiative is a great example of the overlap that occurs in sustainable development. This agreement satisfies the goals of economic growth, reduced inequalities, gender equality, sustainable cities, and responsible consumption.

To read more about Chartwells sustainable impact, visit their site here.