UW/H remains a Fairtrade University

Witten/Herdecke University (UW/H) has been committed to sustainability in food production, fair trade relations and working conditions for years. After being named the first Fairtrade University in the Ruhr region in 2021, it was able to renew its title this year.

In order to receive the award, various criteria must be met: for example, many fair trade products are used and offered in the cafeteria and Café Larix. In addition to coffee, chocolate, cocoa and tea, brown cane sugar, sparkling wine and brown rice are also fairly traded in the cafeteria. More fair trade products are to be used and offered in the future. This commitment promotes fair prices for small farmers and humane working conditions on plantations.

Over the past two years, a number of fair trade campaigns and events have also taken place to sensitise the university community to the relevance of the fair trade approach. Fairtrade oranges and bananas were distributed and, in cooperation with Weltladen Witten, fairtrade hampers were given away to the winners of the city cycling event.

"We are delighted that our commitment to a sustainable, fair world is having an impact and is being recognised. The title renewal gives us a tailwind to continue expanding our efforts in the future," says Dr Dirk Jakobs, UW/H vice president.