How to Support Society With Fair Trade and Sustainable Donation-Based Organizations in Japan | Guidable - Your Guide to a Sustainable, Wellbeing-centred Life in Japan
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How to Support Society With Fair Trade and Sustainable Donation-Based Organizations in Japan

By Myat Kay Khaing Zaw Oct 18, 2024

Have you ever supported social issues through fair trade or donations? According to the World Bank Group, approximately 700 million people worldwide live on less than $2.15 a day. This raises the question: what are the root causes of global poverty? Factors such as civil war, natural disasters, resource scarcity, and inadequate infrastructure contribute to economic decline and increasing poverty levels. Many individuals in developing countries endure low wages and harsh working conditions.

Despite not holding significant positions of power, we can all play a role in improving living standards and promoting community development. Together, we can make a difference.

How Can We Contribute Through Fair Trade and Other Organisations in Japan?

People Tree

fair trade chocolate

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People Tree was founded by Safia Minney in 1991. The brand is well known for trading under certifications of ethical practices and fashionable products using sustainable raw materials. The company contributes to developing countries such as India, Kenya, Nepal, Peru, Bolivia, etc., with fair wages, safe working conditions and social development.

The company has many products, including chocolate, accessories, clothing, and home decorative items. Their products are made of organic and recyclable materials and are produced in eco-friendly ways to reduce pollution and waste. For more information, visit their homepage.

Shokay 

yak fair trade wool

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Have you heard of the name “Shokay”? The company Shokay was established in 2006 and is unique because its clothes and accessories are made from the wool of Tibetan Yaks. Tibetan Yaks are a kind of animal living in high areas of Tibentan regions surrounded by Central Asia. Their main feature is their long, shaggy fur that keeps their body warm. 

Shokay is committed to educating the Tibetan community about sustainability and development. Each year, Tibetan artisans shear wool from yaks, and Shokay sources this wool to create sustainable fabric for its products. As a result, the company has established itself as the world’s first yak wool company.

You can learn more about Shokay and explore their range of high-quality products that provide warmth by visiting their website.

You will also be interested in the following donation programs.

Table for 2 

school children in africa

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The campaign aims to support school lunch programs in Africa, addressing the stark contrast between food insecurity and obesity. While 2 million people in developed countries are classified as obese, 800 million individuals in developing nations suffer from hunger and malnutrition.

Our goals are to eliminate global food imbalances and improve health conditions in both regions. The campaign is straightforward: for every set menu purchased, specifically diet meals with reduced calories, a donation of 20 yen will be made toward school lunches in developing countries.

For more information, please visit the link to the program, and feel free to share it with your social networks.

Khan Academy

Next, we highlight Khan Academy, an open-source learning platform and non-profit organization. Funded by donations from corporations, foundations, and individuals, Khan Academy offers various courses in mathematics and science, all accessible online.

The organization aims to bridge educational gaps worldwide by providing free learning opportunities to students who may not have the means to pay for education. Students from kindergarten through university can benefit from the resources available on the Khan Academy website.

Would you be interested in supporting this important educational initiative?

Let’s Support Society Together

As we go about our daily lives, do you often consider the importance of supporting community development or addressing social issues? What are your thoughts on the Japanese government’s provision of Official Development Assistance (ODA) to developing countries? Many people may feel that they can only influence change if they hold positions of political power or wealth. However, this belief overlooks the potential impact of collective action.

Our unified efforts can be more powerful than the actions of a few influential figures. By making contributions and sharing our resources with those in need, we can help shape the future of developing countries. In doing so, we not only find meaning in our lives but also foster a sense of community that transcends national boundaries.

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Featured image credits: Canva.com