Organic Linker – The Organic and Eco Directory

Like anything in the organic and eco subjects there can be some great sites on the web, sometimes it can be a case of wading through those that you don’t like, some that really aren’t that eco and others that are simply great.

My favourite though has to be Organic Linker. Firstly, it’s a directory, so whether you’re searching for an organic bed and breakfast or solar powered products, this is the place to look. As well as the directory there’s also a forum, which is a great place for asking specific eco questions and sharing your hints and tips - failing that, it’s also a great place just to chat!

Don’t forget to check out the fab tools as well, including veggie trumps – see how well you score!

Fairtrade Chocolate Recipes

I’ve just been looking at the Divine website and found some lovely recipes for Heavenly White Chocolate Brownies and Orange Chocolate Chip Muffins. Its probably an understatement to say I’m not very good in the kitchen, but I’ll still be having a go at making these as they both sound yummy! Other recipes are also online for deserts and cocktails – well worth a look.

Fairtrade Sugar

During this year’s Fairtrade Fortnight, Tate & Lyle announced that they were converting all of their sugar to Fairtrade. To be honest, I’d been meaning to write about it but with so much going on, it completely slipped my mind, so it was a nice surprise when I went to make a drink today and saw it there on the packet.

Tate & Lyle source their cane sugar from Belize and have done so for over 35 years. They have been working closely with the Fairtrade Foundation, Belize Sugar Industries and the Belize Sugar Cane Farmers Association throughout the process.

The sugar industry is very important in Belize, both to the farmers that grow the sugar canes and others that are employed in the industry, such as in the productions areas where the cane is processed.

It’s really fantastic to see a mainstream brand taking such a postive step to support Fairtrade and I’m keeping my fingers firmly crossed that more brands will decide to follow suit.

You can read more about Tate & Lyle here. The Fairtrade Foundation have a real-life story of a farmer here which shows the opportunities that Fairtrade brings.

Fairtrade Awareness

On 10th May 2008 The Fairtrade Foundation released a press release which shows research that they commmissioned, which shows that 70% of UK consumers recognise the FAIRTRADE Mark. This is up a massive 57% compared to 2007! You can read the whole press release here.

Interview with Life Goggles

I was recently lucky enough to be interviewed by Life Goggles, which is a green blog. If you would like to read the interview click here.