Blogging Fair Trade Lebanon

Have a blessed new year 2012!

2011-12-30T16:32:00.000+02:00

Season's Greetings from WFTO!

2011-12-16T14:45:00.000+02:00

A great thank you from Fair Trade Lebanon to all the WFTO management, members, friends and patners worldwide! May you have the warmest greetings!

Are you ready for Christmas?

2011-12-15T11:15:00.005+02:00

Join us at the AFKART Christmas exhibition held in BIEL (Hall 3) from December 16th until the 22nd for some real festive spirit, gift packages and plenty of tastings!

A bientot, see you there!

Au marche de Noël !

2011-12-11T22:30:00.001+02:00

Christmas Market at l'Institut Francais du Liban!

2011-12-05T16:27:00.001+02:00

Fair Trade Lebanon will be present at the Marché de Noel organized by the French Institute of Lebanon (by the French Embassy).

From December 7th until the 10th, Lebanese artisans and local NGOs will be there to sell paintings, accessories, pottery, candles, chocolate and local produce!

All gift ideas to suit your taste!

Practical Info:

Entrance: Free

Hall: Espace des Lettres

Damascus road, Beirut

Tel: 01 420 200

www.institutfrancais-liban.com

Opening Time:

Wed 7th, Thu 8th and Friday 9th: 1:00 PM until 7:30 PM

Saturday 10th: 10 AM until 3 PM

See you there!

...Are you looking for Christmas gifts?

2011-11-29T14:17:00.001+02:00

....Stay tuned!

Fair Trade Lebanon will be in two Christmas exhibitions in less than 15 days!

FTL at the school of Saint-Coeur Kfarhbab!

2011-11-20T11:17:00.001+02:00

Fair Trade Lebanon gave two conferences to students (aging from 9 till 13 years old) at the school of Saint-Coeur Kfarhbab! Our conferences revolved around the theme of Lebanese food-processing cooperatives and Fair Trade as a means for rural development.

We've discussed in detail how cooperatives work: the nature of their activity, the products they prepare, their location as well as their strengths and everyday challenges.

We've also introduced the principles of Fair Trade and the role that FTL plays as a link between small rural producers and consumers!

The audience was delighted! they are now eager to go visit and meet directly with the producers!

We will renew this experience real soon!

Our video: World Rural Woman's Day 2011

2011-11-04T12:37:00.002+02:00

Fair Trade Lebanon has celebrated on Octobre 15th the World Rural Woman's Day at the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture of Zahle and the Bekaa. Our producers came together to discuss their experiences and promote their activities around the principles of Fair Trade.

This video reveals some precious testimonies!

A word of thank you goes to all of our partner producers who were present with us and showed a great deal of solidarity!

Thank You All!

2011-11-02T22:53:00.002+02:00

Le Liban en France: very positive feedback

What an amazing feeling...to be there in Paris and feel the enthusiasm and nostalgia of people looking for their hometown specialties. We've sold our complete stock of products...we could've even sold the pictures that were decorating the stand! No I'm just kidding...I believe that what I want to say is that we would have definitely stayed longer if we could, and we would've loved to continue to tell our story and promote the work of our small fair trade producers. Their products were such a success that we came back home with an amazing dynamism.

We will keep going forward and bring you even better and more innovative products. Paris, we love you. And we will be back....

To all our supporters, all the new people we met and all the volunteers who gave us a hand and helped us through those 3 full days of exhibition: Thank you so much!

FTL : Le Liban en France

2011-10-28T23:27:00.000+02:00

Le Liban en France? Here we come!

2011-10-24T13:27:00.002+02:00

Ahla w sahla fikon bi Baris!

"La France au Liban" in 2010 in Beirut and "Le Liban en France” in Paris in 2011, two events, one goal: To boost business relationships between the French and Lebanese.

In order to promote Lebanese products in France, the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture of Beirut and Mount Lebanon, the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Paris, the Franco-Lebanese Chamber of Commerce and the Embassy of France, are organizing from october 28th until the 30th, an event of great dimension held at the Palais des Congrès in Paris, and entitled “Le Liban en France” (Lebanon in France)!

The objective of this event is to allow Lebanese companies to meet with new professional contacts and investors and to promote their products and services to the grand public.

Le Liban en France is an opportunity to discover a new culture, a new story, that of Lebanon. Fair Trade Lebanon will be there to exhibit its range Terroirs du Liban. We invite you all to come and visit our stand; you will definitly not regret it and will go back home with an amazing gourmet selection:

Baba ghannouj, Hummus ready to eat, Pomegranate molasses, Traditionnal Lebanese soaps from Tripoli, Sirops, Virgin olive oil, Spices and the list goes on! of course, all natural with 0 additives nor colorants!!

We are waiting for you! Pictures will be uploaded starting this Friday!

Practical Information:
Location: Palais des Congres (2, Place de la Porte Maillot, 75017 Paris)
Halls: PASSY A, B, and C
Dates: From Friday 28th until Sunday 30th of October, 2011
Time: From 10:00 AM until 8:00PM

Entrance: Free

October 15th: Happy Rural Woman's Day!

2011-10-18T09:25:00.000+02:00

For the third consecutive year, the NGO Fair Trade Lebanon (FTL) commemorates the World Rural Women’s Day. This day is celebrated worldwide on October 15th to recognize the great effort and dedication of rural women in our societies, while stressing on the importance of their activities within the agricultural sector, vital to our economy.

On this occasion, and under the theme “Women at the heart of Fair Trade: Exchanges and Cooperation”, FTL invited all its partners, more than 15 food processing cooperatives on Saturday October 15th 2011 at the Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture of Zahle and the Bekaa, in order to meet, exchange experiences and build a cooperation model based on the principles of fair trade.

In fact, since its creation in 2006, Fair Trade Lebanon works to promote Fair Trade, an alternative trading model that aims to help small producers by providing them with sales opportunities and offering them a fair price for their products. Moreover, in 2010, FTL has become member of the world fair trade organization (WFTO), and has hence given a global dimension to the cause of Lebanese producers.

The program of the day began at 9:30 AM by a word of welcome. It was be followed by a presentation on Fair Trade and its fundamental principles, as well as testimonies from women producers. Fair Trade Lebanon has also announced the project of establishing a platform for agricultural cooperatives as members of the international fair trade network represented in Lebanon by FTL.

Organic...the basics you need to know.

2011-09-12T11:13:00.001+02:00

In Lebanon, we tend to confuse Organic production with "Home made", "Natural" or "Private gardening". We sometimes even believe that "organic" is restricted to "healthy"...healthy for your body and diet. But these prejudice are incorrect...Organic is actually extremely linked to Environment...so let us elaborate a little more in order to brighten the big picture.

1-How to define "Organic Foods"?

Organic foods are produced using methods that do not involve modern synthetic inputs such as synthetic pesticides and chemical fertilizers, do not contain genetically modified organisms, and are not processed using irradiation, industrial solvents, or chemical food additives.
For the vast majority of human history, agriculture can be described as "organic"; only during the 20th century was a large supply of new synthetic chemicals introduced to the food supply. The organic farming movement arose in the 1940s in response to the industrialization of agriculture known as the Green Revolution.

Last but not least: [On the contrary to what you may think], the weight of the available scientific evidence has not shown a significant difference between organic and more conventionally grown food in terms of safety, nutritional value, or taste. [This must be double checked in reference to the Lebanese reality.]
source: wikipedia, more here.

2-How could we distinguish organic products from conventional ones (in local Lebanese context)?

No farmer can claim that his / her crops are organic just because they believe they are. Soils must be tested and the whole farming process must be monitored and regulated in order to accredit such sayings. There are independant certifying bodies who operate on this level in order to grant producers an official Organic Certification for their production, and hence, an official organic label for their products.

In Lebanon, two bodies are approved to certify and grant the organic label: IMC (Instituto Mediterraneo di Certificazione) and LibanCert.

During their assessment, they inspect the facilities, the soil, the water used for irrigation, the packing material, the cleaning products, and they do random sampling of final products to be sent for laboratory tests.

While buying local products at the store, look for the below logos for certification:

3-Organic farming and Environment...any impact?

According to a French study done by the Agence BIO (2006 report), organic farming has demonstrated positive impacts on the soil's structure and fertility; some of the study findings are listed below:

Absence of residues of synthetic chemical pesticides
Intense biological soil activity
Higher level of organic sustances in the soil
Limited nitrate pollution
Crop diversity, landscape diversity
Biodiversity of natural species are witnessed in the surroundings of organic farms
Conservation of the genetic diversity of cultivated plants

The soil is a living environment, housing a variety of bacteria, micro-fungi, insects, earthworms etc. It is a complex and multi-functional nonrenewable resource! We must preserve it from often irreversible damage given its major role in the regulation of natural balances.

75% of French consumers accompany their organic purchase with an ethical incentive. They believe that choosing organic is looking beyond the present and making a sustainable choice for generations to come.

4-Where can you purchase fresh and processed local organic products?

I've researched some local outlets and specialized stores...listed below in random order:

Organic Bakery Chouf area Tel: 05340371; available in Beirut through network stores

Beit el Soha Facing Hotel Dieu hospital, Achrafieh; Tel: 01398366

A New Earth Achrafieh (Zahrat al Ihsan street); Tel: 01219920

Live Organic New Naccache, main road; Tel: 04444886

Healthy Basket Store in Hamra & Home Delivery; Tel: 01747831 and 03794438

Naturalia located in Baabda, Tel: 05456566

It is a narrow list and does not include all places, in addition to small selective outlets, all supermarkets usually do have imported and local organic items.

Use your loaf: food prices and the Arab uprising, by Dr Rami Zurayk

2011-07-28T18:00:00.000+02:00

Published in The Observer, on 17th of July 2011:

"People in Arab countries have always relied on bread as a low-cost source of sustenance. In Yemen alone there are more than 20 different kinds of bread, each made and baked differently.

In Egypt, bread is known as aish, meaning "life". It is the inseparable companion of all dishes, even some desserts. The Fertile Crescent, stretching from the Egyptian Nile to the mouth of the Tigris and Euphrates, is where agriculture began, where wheat, lentils, chickpeas, sheep and goats and olives were first cultivated.

Today, that same region is the largest importer of food in the world. [...] Although the Arab revolutions were united under the slogan "the people want to bring down the regime" not "the people want more bread", food was a catalyst."

Read the full article here.

Dr Rami Zurayk's blog Land and People.

Rami Zurayk is a professor of agricultural and food sciences at the American University of Beirut and author of Food, Farming and Freedom: Sowing the Arab Spring (Just World Books). Find it on amazon.

Pomegranate virtues...the scientific truth

2011-07-27T18:00:00.001+02:00

From Healthcentral.com:

There is a lot of buzz lately about the pomegranate exotic fruit. How much is supported by scientific research?

Pomegranates grow wild from Iran to northern India, but they are cultivated throughout India, the Middle East, southern Europe and California.

Here’s what some of the researchers’ reports say about the pomegranate fruit:

1- Rich in antioxidants that can keep bad LDL cholesterol from oxidizing
2-Pomegranate juice, like aspirin, can help keep blood platelets from clumping together to form unwanted clots
3-Eight ounces of pomegranate juice daily for three months improves the amount of oxygen getting to the heart muscle of patients with coronary heart disease
4- Possibility that pomegranate compounds might prevent prostate cancer or slow its growth
5- Pomegranate juice might help reduce the risk of breast cancer
6- Tissue cultures of human cartilage cells respond to pomegranate extract. Inflammation is reduced and the enzymes that break down cartilage become less active.

This is still far from a prescription for aching joints, but most experts agree that a little pomegranate won’t hurt and might help!

Scientific research sources:
American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, May 2000
American Journal of the College of Cardiology, Sept. 2005
Journal of Nutrition, Sept. 2005

Deir El Ahmar

2011-07-26T09:39:00.007+02:00

Deir El Ahmar is a Lebanese town, located at 100 km from Beirut and 12 km northeast of Baalbeck in the Bekaa Valley in Lebanon.

Deir el Ahmar's location in the fertile Beqaa Valley makes agriculture its main economical activity. The town has also good potential for tourism due to the mild climate, pristine nature, and the variety of historical and archeological sites. Ecotourism, especially natural excursions and hiking trips are becoming more popular in the region of Deir el Ahmar. Tourists also visit the local organic farms and participate in farming activities.

However, an economical and demographic study conducted in Deir el Ahmar by Dr Gaby Saliba in 2001 highlights the following three problems:

1- High emigration of youth [62% of population] and still increasing mainly caused by the lack of high education institutions and the nearest university is 40 minutes away.
2- Scarce role of women in development.
3- And high rate of unemployment.

The pictures above were taken by my colleagues Fanny and Vanessa who spent 4 days in Deir El Ahmar accompanying our wine producers during their first audit for organic certification, provided by the IMC international body.

KILL BEES!

2011-07-25T16:15:00.000+02:00

FNE (France Nature Environnement) is a federation of more than 3000 French NGOs working in the field of environment.

It was founded in 1968 in the aim of informing and alerting the grand public to crucial environmental threats by seeking massive mobilization and achieving ambitious policy changes.
Whether it is climate change, biodiversity, sustainable mobility, agriculture, industrial risks...FNE is renowned for its expertise and its contribution to the improvement and implementation of important laws and regulations (in France and the European Union).

The advertisements above are selected from one of their awareness raising campaigns:

Ad 1: KILL BEES; Some pesticides present a deadly danger to bees, and it is not a drama film.

Ad 2: IT IS WITHOUT DANGER; regarding GMO (Genetically Modified Organisms) we still do not have enough hindsight...

Ad 3: STOP YOUR NON-SENSE; Industrial farming and fertilizers generate green algae. Their decomposition releases a deadly gas to Men.

Our 10 Fair Trade Principles

2011-07-15T11:00:00.001+02:00

Principle One: Creating Opportunities for Economically Disadvantaged Producers
Principle Two: Transparency and Accountability
Principle Three: Fair Trading Practices
Principle Four: Payment of a Fair Price
Principle Five: Ensuring no Child Labour and Forced Labour
Principle Six: Commitment to Non Discrimination, Gender Equity and Freedom of Association
Principle Seven: Ensuring Good Working Conditions
Principle Eight: Providing Capacity Building
Principle Nine: Promoting Fair Trade
Principle Ten: Respect for the Environment

For more information about Fair Trade click on this link for French text, and on >this one for English.

So who is Jim? And what is Fatteh?

2011-07-12T13:31:00.014+02:00

Just like us, Jim is a gourmet who simply loves delicious food!

His eagerness to share with the world the secrets and richness of the Lebanese cuisine has driven him, along with his partner, to set up an online website dedicated to topnotch recipes that everyone must try out! Ladies and gentlmen, recettelibanaison.com is a mixture of food, of photography, of mezze, platters, breads and all types of desserts...While you're on the homepage, make sure to check out Les Recettes Minceur...I guess we all need some salad tips and ideas for summer time!

As for Fatteh...the origin of this dish is said to be Syrian...but it is commonly prepared in Lebanon and could have so many variations: with or without meat, with yoghurt or sometimes Tahini, could also include eggplants, some paprika and other types of spices.

Recettelibanaise brings you Fatteh as described below:

Ingredients (serves 4):
- 200 g cooked chickpeas
- 200 g of ground beef coarsely chopped
- 4 small pots of yogurt
- 2 cloves of garlic, crushed with salt
- 1 / 2 teaspoon of salt
- 1 / 2 teaspoon of dried mint
- 1 / 4 teaspoon of black pepper
- 1 / 4 teaspoon of pepper
- 2 tablespoons pine seeds
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil (olive oil could work as well)
- 1 loaf of Lebanese bread

Preparation:
-Cut the bread into small triangles and grill them in the oven.
-In a bowl combine garlic, salt, mint and yogurt.
-In a saucepan, brown the pine seeds until lightly browned then remove.
-Add ground meat and fry until it changes color. Season with salt and spices and then add the pine seeds.

Serving:

-Place the pieces of toast in the bottom of a dish.
-Add the chickpeas over the bread.
-Pour the yogurt.
-Top with minced meat and pine nuts.
-Garnish with a mint leaf!

Et voila...your perfect summer entrée! Bon Appétit!

And as my colleague would perfectly describe it"you will eat and cry" (from joy of course...a la libanaise)...!!

The Love of Food...

2011-07-07T07:54:00.010+02:00

"I just can't stand people who do not take food seriously" thank you Oscar Wilde for saying it so well...I personally feel so ecstatic when I step into a restaurant and get surprised by delicious food. The complete opposite happens when I taste average, boring ingredients, most of time fatty things, mixed together in a non-harmonic way...what a waste.

Food should perfectly melt into your mouth, it should be prepared with a lot of delicatesse and it must be planned. A good chef stays up all night thinking about the new recipe he wants to try out.
As I write this post, I'm already thinking of all the tasty summer snacks and refreshments, I feel like having some crunchy bread, topped with chickpeas and some cold yoghurt...yum, and all of it garnished with a couple of mint leaves....oh my, this is so fresh and mouth-watering...

Dear readers, in my next post I'll introduce you to Jim and to the Lebanese Fatteh...you must stay tuned...

Fair Trade for Women Producers...Portraits of Hope and Determination

2011-07-05T14:15:00.001+02:00

The Women’s Economic Empowerment project was launched in 2009 and is funded by the MDG3 Global Fund by the Government of the Netherlands. Through the project, WIEGO (Women in Informal Employment Globalizing and Organizing) and its partners are advocating for the needs of informal workers, especially women. The project seeks to promote the voice, visibility and validity of working poor women across different countries, sectors and issues in the informal economy. As part of this project, WIEGO’s Global Trade Programme, in partnership with leading Fair Trade organizations in seven countries, initiated Fair Trade for Women Producers with a focus on documenting, analyzing and disseminating key success factors of fair trade by involving women producers in all stages of development.

They have coordinated and organized their 2 year research with several country networks: In India, Nepal, Nicaragua, Mexico, Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania. In each country, they have chosen a few women groups and have followed them in their daily life, searching for information and common trends. The groups were given video and digital cameras and were asked to be their own messengers, so they began to interview themselves and use their own words to tell their unique stories.

I personally watched in Kenya the series of small documentaries that WIEGO produced for each country...I enjoyed each second of them and realized that sometimes we could be extremely ungrateful in regard to what we have, or what we think we don't have. I was struck by the courage and the motivation of these women struggling to put food on the table and make a decent living for themselves and their families. Some of them are marginalized by their respective societies because they happen to be widows or with special needs...These women producers chose to fight against their tremendous poverty and oppression, by organizing themselves and increasing their power and performance as a group.

The below videos would give you a broader vision of what Fair Trade or Women Producers really represents:

As stated by WIEGO... these are "portraits of hope and determination".

Bijaipur, India: part I

Bijaipur, India: part II

All the documentaries and analysis are available on the blog of Fair Trade for Women Producers (under the country pages), click here to access the home page.

Thank you Elaine, Carole and Sofia for the beautiful work...and a bigger thanks to all these noble ladies who, by speaking out, remind us that life is really what you make of it...

Outstanding businesswoman

2011-07-01T13:22:00.009+02:00

Ethiopian Fair Trade pioneer and World Economic Forum’s 2011 Young Global Leader Mrs. Bethlehem Tilahum Alemu has been named Outstanding Businesswoman for this year’s African Business Awards. Bethlehem, founder of the soleRebels footwear brand, is the first fair trader to receive the tribute.

“Bethlehem is truly a remarkable entrepreneur and leader. She has built an incredibly successful company and a global brand from scratch. At the same time she has empowered her community and her country while presenting a galvanized, dynamic face of African creativity to the global market. With that in mind we are excited and honored to name her Outstanding Business Woman of the year,” Omar Ben Yedder, publisher of African Business magazine, commented on her award.

The African Business Awards is organized by the African Business magazine and the Commonwealth Business Council, as a platform to give recognition of the excellence and best practices in the African business communities.

Congratulations to Bethlehem and soleRebels!

Source: WFTO july 2011 newsletter.

Small producers struggle to earn a fair price...

2011-06-29T09:40:00.002+02:00

“In Lebanon, the price of wheat is protected by the government, as for the other crops, small farmers struggle to earn the right and fair price for their goods. Middle-men are the ones who collect the big margins, leaving out the real growers” – says M. Sleilati.

M. Sleilati has founded his family business 10 years ago in the region of Kob Elias. He has a few employees in his mill where he produces bulgur, and sells all types of local seeds and pulses. He congratulates himself for his perseverance and for the improvement of the business. Over the years, he was able to successfully increase his production and his sales. According to him, we must find solutions to the two most urgent issues facing our agriculture: unemployment in the countryside, and rural exodus….

This summer...careful with the sun and keep your skin hydrated!

2011-06-26T16:54:00.005+02:00

If you think that pollution is the number one cause to harm your skin…
think twice.
Researches show that sun is actually the first cause behind skin cancer, wrinkles, eczema and other types of irritations…

According to the WebMd advice:
“You might like the look of tanned skin, but the sun takes a heavy toll on your health and your appearance. Sunlight consists of UVA rays, which can lead to premature aging and skin cancer, and UVB rays, which are the main cause of sunburn. A broad-spectrum sunscreen will protect you against both types. Make sure to coat the skin generously, and don't forget to use a protective lip balm.”

Our recommendation for you this summer, is to give yourself the easy-crucial-responsible treatment! Hmmm, so what does it consist of?

Well…first of all start your day with:

A gentle and efficient facial cleanser, which would also exfoliate your skin

Then apply a matt and odorless sunscreen on your face and neck! (Yes you will look much younger as the years go by…it’s the dermatologists best kept secret!).

Second clause: Remember to moisturize your skin everyday! Consider replacing your commercial shower gel with a natural soap, such as olive oil soap.
For that, we do have exactly what you need….

Our olive oil and bay leaf (5%) soap is made from 100% natural ingredients, according to the traditional Aleppo recipe. It is a natural antiseptic soap with vegetable fat and no chemical additives, ideal for sensitive skins.
Beauty experts highly recommend olive oil soap during summer and all year long for its moisturizing properties, it retains water and keeps the skin hydrated.
Exfoliating and moisturizing is definitely the recipe for smooth and soft body care!

Sign up and follow the blog by Email

2011-06-22T09:39:00.003+02:00

An easy and fast way to stay tuned and connected to Blogging Fair Trade Lebanon is to register your email (this feature is available on this right-side banner of the blog page) and instantly receive all new posts to your inbox!

The Art of Italian Cooking...or how you can get involved!

2011-06-21T14:39:00.006+02:00

The Art of Italian Cooking is launching a series of cooking workshops in collaboration with Fair Trade Lebanon, and is bringing you an exquisite menu made with fair trade products purchased from small Lebanese producers established in rural regions.

If you are bored of doing the same old things or just want to learn a few new recipes...then sign up for this fun cooking class, whether you are a group of friends (up to 8 people) or just a cozy couple, Nina will organize your workshop sur mesure and take you on a culinary trip through Italy and it's delicious recipes: Bitter orange peels à l'italienne, virgin olive oil and pizza dough, chicken slices in pomegranate marinade...and so much more!

Starting Wednesday the 22nd of June, Nina will use fair trade products in her menu and you will also be able to purchase those ingredients after the class is done.

How would you be getting involved?

The Art of Italian Cooking is actually raising funds for ALPHA (Association Libanaise pour la promotion Humaine et l'Alphabétisation), a Lebanese NGO founded in 1993 in the aim of promoting Human Rights and the development of our country through popular education.

By participating in this class you would be supporting two associations, ALPHA and Fair Trade Lebanon, and actively contributing to raising awareness for local and sustainable development.

Technical information:
Schedule of workshops:
Sundays from 4:30 pm until 6:30 pm
Tuesdays or Thursdays from 7:30 pm to 9:30 pm
Session fee: $ 30/ 50.000 LBP (including cooking kit & ingredients)
Session duration: 2 hours.
For reservation:
Mobile: 71211891 (Nina)
Email: italiancookingworkshop@gmail.com

The Art of Italian cooking facebook page: become fan and stay up to date with the latest news!

The Garden Show Spring Festival 2011!

2011-06-03T09:09:00.004+02:00

From May 24th until 28th, Fair Trade Lebanon was present at the yearly Garden Show Spring Festival taking place at the Beirut Hippodrome. We were very pleased by the outcome of this event. In the aim of raising awareness for Fair Trade, we are most importantly promoting a range of natural and top-quality products, sourced from some of the smallest food-processing cooperatives established in rural regions.

Group picture from WFTO conference in Mombasa, 2011

2011-05-31T09:44:00.001+02:00

Be Inspired Before you Expire!

2011-05-27T11:24:00.011+02:00

If you are a dreamer, a believer, a person looking for a meaning to your actions, then it's never too late to BE INSPIRED and to go for it.

The WFTO 11th biennial conference was launched with the theme of:
WFTO: A global partnership for a common good.

...What is a common good? It is the present, it is us, working together hand in hand and putting the interest of small producers in our hearts and minds, in order to walk towards the ultimate goal of reaching a fairer and more transparent trading system.

Despite the global shaky economy that affects our understanding of the "common good", we all gathered here in Mombasa to reaffirm the foundations, the principles and the beauty of an organization uniting more than 700 Fair Trade actors worldwide.

This global conference, of just a few days, was a great opportunity to share expertise and stories! I've met artisans from Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, Swaziland...as well as Asian participants from India, Bangladesh, Philippines, Nepal and the list goes on.

I can't describe the thrill that sprinkles in ones heart in such a rich gathering, but I can try and give you a small idea by quoting this sentence:

"The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams" -Eleanor Roosevelt.

WFTO 11th Biennial Global Conference

2011-05-22T15:22:00.007+02:00

Today is registration day….By now, almost all the participants have arrived to Mombasa.
More info about the launching of the conference will be posted tomorrow, until then, I've added some pictures of the coastal view.

Pictures taken from the Sai Rock beach hotel...Ocean looks amazing.

Headed to Mombasa, KENYA!

2011-05-21T17:15:00.003+02:00

So I left Lebanon today at 4:00 AM and headed to Mombasa, the second largest city in Kenya, renowned for its beautiful coastal view and its location by the Indian Ocean!

I’ve taken 3 flights:

Departure: BEIRUT -> to Doha, Qatar (3 hours) -> to Nairobi, capital of Kenya (5 hours) -> arrival to: Mombasa, internal flight (1 hour).

I got here at 4:00 PM, May 21st….total journey of 12 hours.

I’ll be staying in Kenya until the 28^th and representing Fair Trade Lebanon at the 11^th Biennial Global Conference of the WFTO.

I’m very excited to participate in this global gathering of worldwide Fair Trade actors. I’m also looking forward to witnessing the huge organizational effort that was done by the WFTO global office and the KEFAT NGO in order to put together the entire event. Not to mention, all the positive networking and outcome expected for Fair Trade Lebanon *fingers crossed*! J

Pictures from the Fair Trade Fortnight 2011!

2011-05-20T17:13:00.004+02:00

For the third consecutive year, Fair Trade Lebanon celebrates the Fair Trade Fortnight

From May 14th until the 29th, Fair Trade Lebanon (FTL) is celebrating the Fair Trade Fortnight in Lebanon. This event of international scope, aims to inform, educate and mobilize the public around Fair Trade as an alternative consumption model that respects people and the environment.

The Fortnight celebration revolves around the World Fair Trade Day, designated on May 14th, 2011. This important date is organized in partnership of the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO), which gathers over 400 fair trade actors from 73 countries and of which FTL is a member since September 2010. The theme for the 2011 edition is "Trade for people: Fair Trade your world.”

Fair Trade Lebanon joins the event: During these fifteen days of campaign, FTL has mobilized more than ten renowned restaurants that have committed to serving fair trade products in their menus as well as communicating about this theme.

This effort to raise awareness for Fair Trade is supported by the French Embassy in Lebanon.

Restaurants celebrating the Fair Trade Fortnight in Lebanon

2011-05-16T09:30:00.004+02:00

Fair Trade Lebanon is celebrating the Fair Trade Fortnight in Lebanon from the 14th until the 29th of May 2011...this big event is in partnership with local restaurants:

• Chez Paul 3 branches: Ghazir highway, Gouraud Street Gemmayzeh, ABC Ashrafieh
• La Mie Dorée CCF, Damascus Road, Mathaf, Tel: 01 42 02 17
• Lina’s Le Mall (Sin el Fil and Saida), ABC (Ashrafieh and Dbayeh), Jal el Dib, Kaslik
www.linalb.com
• Downtown Zeidan building, Kaslik, Tel: 09 222 211
• DT An Nahar building, Central Beirut District, Tel: 01 999 932
• Sô Quantum Tower, Ashrafieh, Tel : 01 336 644
• Soho Karagulla building, Central Beirut District, Tel : 01 999 938

This event supported by the French Embassy in Lebanon

Fair Trade Lebanon's video presented to the WFTO

2011-05-12T14:25:00.000+02:00

The World Fair Trade Organization has asked all of its members and supporters to produce a 60 second video about their work, activities, producers or any other interesting topic related to fair trade...

The video we produced is about Walid, a young farmer from Deir el Ahmar, who has replaced his cannabis plants with vineyards...Enjoy his testimony...

May 14th: World Fair Trade Day 2011!

2011-05-12T13:47:00.000+02:00

From May 14th until the 28th, Fair Trade Lebanon is celebrating the Fair Trade Fortnight in Lebanon. This event, of international dimension, revolves around the World Fair Trade Day on the 12th of May and aims to raise awareness for Fair Trade as an alternative trading system that respects people and the environment.

During our fifteen days of campaign, table mats about fair trade will be placed in 12 different restaurants which also agreed to include some of Fair Trade Lebanon’s products into their menus!

In addition to that, and to gather more people into this global celebration, FTL will hold a stand at the Garden Show Spring Festival taking place at the Hippodrome of Beirut from May 24th to 28th, from 4 to 10 PM.

Our aim is to let the voice of fair trade be heard and encourage people to support and join this dynamic by choosing to put the interest of our small producers above all.

This event is supported by the French Embassy in Lebanon.

How Fair Trade can be a remedy to agricultural challenges

2011-03-30T12:56:00.003+02:00

In the 1960s, 50% of Lebanese lived in the countryside. In 2008, they only represented 13%. This reflects the reality of the country, rural regions and lands are abandoned, traditional skills are being lost and the economy is increasingly dependent on food import.
Fair Trade can be a way to revive the village, value the work of small producers and allow them to fight against rural exodus.

Video by Anne Ilcinkas
Music: Astrakhan Café Anouar Brahem

FTL is catering the screening of a great movie, join us!

2011-03-29T14:53:00.004+02:00

Join Fair Trade Lebanon on March 31st at indyact for a joint event with TimeOut Beirut and Save Beirut Heritage; we will watch the extraordinary piece of witnessing that is: 'Beyrouth: Dialogue des Ruines' Dir. Bahij Hojeij. 1994. 50mins. French (no subtitles). Followed by a very special Q&A with the Director, soon after the release of his superb feature film, Chatti ya Dini.

Even if you don't speak French, it's completely worth it for the footage of the dynamiting of buildings in Downtown prior to their re-vamping by Solidere. It's also a moving meditation on the history of the city, its people and its future.

Refreshments will be provided by Fair Trade Lebanon. You can join the event here on Facebook.

Looking for chickpeas lentils and bulgur? We got them!

2011-01-14T15:08:00.004+02:00

Dear bloggers, foodies and chefs!

These Mediterranean specialties are available in France, Germany and Canada.

Healthy and loaded with fibers, Bulgur, Lentils and chickpeas are great basis for any type of cuisine and dishes.

Make sure you try them!

To ask about the closest address to you, email me:

r.elchemali@fairtradelebanon.org

Roasted Cumin Chickpeas! so crunchy crunchy....

2011-01-14T09:39:00.006+02:00

Great with BBQ, for nibbling with a fresh cocktail or on top of green salads!

Ingredients
•1 can chick peas (or boiled fresh chickpeas)
•2 Tbsp. olive oil
•1 tsp. turmeric
•1 tsp. cumin
•1/4 tsp. cardamom
•1 tsp. fresh oregano
•2 garlic cloves
•Dash of cayenne pepper
•Dash of Salt and pepper

Directions
•Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees.
•Drain chick peas and rinse well with cold water. Let sit for 15 minutes in a colander to drain.
•Toss beans with olive oil and all above ingredients (except fresh oregano).
•Arrange on a baking sheet in a single layer; roast for 50 minutes or until browned.
•Serve warm with Parmesan Cheese and fresh oregano.

Note: You may also add a dash of paprika for a little spicy tasty!

A must try! enjoy it...!

Recipe from The Healthy Apple

Picture from The perfect pantry

Bulgur with Ginger and Orange Recipe!

2011-01-13T16:42:00.005+02:00

Ingredients:
2 oranges
2 teaspoons canola oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons minced fresh ginger
1 cup bulgur, rinsed
2 teaspoons brown sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/3 cup slivered almonds
2/3 cup chopped scallions
1 tablespoon reduced-sodium soy sauce

Directions:
1. Zest 1 orange; reserve the zest. Juice both oranges. If necessary, add enough water to the juice to measure 1 1/2 cups total.

2. Heat oil in a large heavy saucepan over medium-high heat. Add garlic and ginger; cook, stirring, until fragrant, about 30 seconds. Add bulgur and stir to coat. Add the orange juice, brown sugar and salt; bring to a simmer. Reduce heat to maintain a gentle simmer, cover and cook until the bulgur is tender and most of the liquid has been absorbed, 15 to 25 minutes.

3. Meanwhile, toast almonds in a small dry skillet over medium-low heat, stirring frequently, until light golden and fragrant, 2 to 3 minutes.

4. Add scallions, soy sauce and the reserved orange zest to the bulgur; mix gently and fluff with a fork. Serve sprinkled with the almonds.

Ingredient Note: Fiber-rich bulgur?whole-wheat kernels that are precooked, dried and cracked?is sold in natural-foods stores and large markets.

About this recipe:
Bulgur is ubiquitous in Middle Eastern cooking but also pairs deliciously with Asian seasonings. This simple side dish is perfect with beef, lamb or poultry. For variations, substitute toasted sesame seeds for the almonds, or carrot juice (it is surprisingly good and certainly nutritious) for orange juice.

Source: KitchenDaily.com

Red Lentil Dahl Recipe

2011-01-03T12:17:00.007+02:00

This list of ingredients is long but much of it is spices. The stew actually comes together quite quickly.

Ingredients:
Vegetable oil or grape seed oil
2 tsp. cumin seeds
2 tsp. black or yellow mustard seeds
1 medium onion, finely diced
1 ½ inches of fresh ginger, peeled and minced
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 jalapeno chili, seeded, finely chopped
1 ½ tsp. curry powder
2 tsp. ground cumin
1 tsp. turmeric
Pinch of chili powder
1 tbsp. tomato paste
2 cups red lentils
2 cinnamon sticks (or 1, if large)
2 cups water
1 15-oz. can “light” coconut milk
Sea salt
Juice of 1 lemon
A bunch of mint, chopped
A bunch of cilantro, chopped

Instructions:
Heat just enough oil to coat the bottom of a large pan and add the mustard and cumin seeds. Be careful as they will begin to pop. Immediately add the onion, adjust the heat to medium, and cook until softened – about five minutes. Add the ginger, garlic, chili, curry powder, cumin, turmeric, and chili powder and fry for 3 minutes. Add the tomato paste and fry the mixture for 1 minute.

Add the lentils and stir to coat them with the oil and spices. Add the cinnamon stick, water, and coconut milk. Bring to a boil and then reduce the heat so the dhal is at a simmer. Cover partially and cook, stirring occasionally so it doesn’t stick to the bottom, until the lentils have partially lost their shape and are soft – about 15 minutes. Stir in more liquid as necessary for the consistency you want.

Remove the pot from the heat, season with sea salt and add the lemon juice to taste. At this point, you can allow the dhal to cool and then cover and refrigerate it overnight. When reheating on the stove, you will need to add more liquid as it will thicken as it sits.
About 10 minutes before serving, add the herbs. You will want them to cook down a bit but not so much that they lose their color.

Serve warm over basmati rice and with a raita if desired.

Bon Appetit!

Total Servings: 6
Nutritional Information Per Serving:
Calories: 455.9
Carbohydrates: 53.2 g
Cholesterol: 0.0 mg
Fat: 19.0 g
Saturated Fat: 15.1 g
Fiber: 26.0 g
Sodium: 100.7 mg
Protein: 22.3 g

By Dana Treat
Recipe from Foodily.com

Exposition Afkart : Decembre 2010

2010-12-20T14:33:00.008+02:00

Fair Trade Lebanon expose ses produits issus du commerce équitable à Afkart, le salon de Noël des designers libanais au Biel à Beyrouth, du 14 au 20 décembre 2010. Les visiteurs à la recherche de cadeaux pour les fêtes ont pu découvrir -ou redécouvrir- les saveurs traditionnelles du terroir libanais.

A l'occasion, FTL leur propose en plus de sa gamme habituelle des coffrets cadeaux spéciaux, du vin rouge pour accompagner leur repas le soir du réveillon ou des croquants au sésame, cacahuètes ou noisettes pour satisfaire leurs petites faims. " Je suis passée hier et je suis revenue aujourd'hui avec mes parents pour leur montrer tous ces produits traditionnels", témoigne une passante, enthousiasmée par les confitures naturelles de FTL.

Les touristes sont également séduits par les sirops, mélasses, huiles d'olive et autres gourmandises du stand :" J'en achète pour ma famille", raconte une jeune américaine de passage au Liban. " Je veux leur faire découvrir toutes ces recettes de la gastronomie libanaise!"

Si chaque visiteur déguste avec ravissement les produits des coopératives de femmes et des petits producteurs locaux exposés, peu connaissent le commerce équitable et ses principes. " Il reste un grand travail de sensibilisation auprès du public à faire" rapporte Randa el Chemali, responsable marketing chez FTL, qui met un point d'honneur à expliquer à chaque client les valeurs de respect et de solidarité qui régissent le commerce équitable.

Texte et Vidéo par Anne Ilcinkas.

Join us from Dec 14th until 20th at BIEL !

2010-12-07T18:16:00.003+02:00

Oh we know you miss us...!!

Come and share the fun at the AFKART Christmas Exhibition held at BIEL (Hall 3) from Dec 14th until the 20th

- Everyday from 4:00 till 10:00 PM -

Fair Trade Lebanon will be selling Christmas and Wine Packages !

Make sure you are there for our wine tasting

Merry Christmas Everyone...See you there :) we'll be at the Food Court

Fair Trade Lebanon at Balamand University

2010-11-25T20:00:00.001+02:00

Dear Students and Advocates,

Today FTL was be present at the University of Balamand to give a conference about the concept of Fair Trade, its opportunities and challenges. The event was organized by the university's Interactive student Club, which we deeply thank for their interest, motivation, and communication work.

If you are a student reading this blog and wish to launch the same event at your own university, then Fair Trade Lebanon would be more than glad to hear from you!

Visit of the French Ambassador to Ain Ebel

2010-11-24T22:40:00.005+02:00

Today, we were honored by the visit of His Excellency the Ambassador of France in Lebanon Mr Denis Pietton, to our partner Food-Processing Cooperative of Ain Ebel. The program involved the presentation of the cooperative whose rehabilitation has been supported by the Social Fund for Development of the French Embassy in partnership with Fair Trade Lebanon.

Marathon 2010: We did it!

2010-11-08T09:20:00.003+02:00

Go Fair Trade!

Good Job, 10 km in about 1h20!

Fair Trade Lebanon will run the 2010 Marathon

2010-11-04T15:41:00.005+02:00

On Sunday the 7th of November, Fair Trade Lebanon will run the 10 Km Marathon race organized by the Beirut Marathon Association.

Here's our story in six words...

"WE RUN, TO STAY…IN LEBANON".

People run for many reasons, for life, for adrenaline, for peace, for competition, for health or simply for fun….Fair Trade Lebanon wants to RUN for the PRESENT, for LEBANON. We will run because we are choosing to stay…to make a point that our future is this land, and we will keeping on running to protect it, to build it and to promote it and promote FAIR TRADE for all. Our motivation is like this race, long and stubborn, and we will keep on going. Fair Trade Lebanon is here to stay!

We are at ASSAHA Supermarket !

2010-10-31T09:00:00.001+02:00

New Entry in the Lebanese market : Our products are now sold at
ASSAHA Supermarket in Mar Takla, Hazmieh.

A wide choice of products is there for you, our stand Terroirs du Liban is filled with Syrups, Virgin Olive Oil, Red Wine, Distillates....

...and a variety of condiments for your refined cuisine: Grilled Wheat, Zaatar, Fleur de Sel, Chilli Paste, Organic Ketchup and Goat Kechek (our famous Lebanese specialty, exquisite!)...

...you will also find our whole selection of jams and fruits in syrup!

Dear bloggers and followers,

Fair Trade is about improving lives...it is about helping small producers strengthen their activities while providing them with marketing and sales opportunities, sustainable solutions and better incomes in order for them to fight against rural exodus, poverty and unemployment.

But not only, Fair Trade is also about ensuring that the final product is irreproachable in regard to quality and to recipes.
We are proud to say that the brand Terroirs du Liban has passed all quality tests and requirements necessary for export (ingredients used, process of production and packaging are all approved in the European and North-American markets), our products attract consumers by their natural and traditional process (no additives nor preservatives), their taste, their variety, and that fun twist of modernity!...

The best way to enjoy all of the above is to go ahead and indulge yourself in...
Terroirs du Liban

For more info, call: 05 952 153

Pictures of FTL's catering!

2010-10-30T22:54:00.002+02:00

En route to women's cooperatives in the Bekaa - iloubnan.info

2010-10-25T13:16:00.006+02:00

Report by Anne llcinkas from iloubnan.info
Music by Dhafer Youssef

This report summarizes our field trip on October 15th and our celebration of World Rural Woman's Day. In the midst of our most forgotten Lebanese villages, there are powerful women doing some impressive work and bringing change to their households and communities...this video is priceless...

Thank you Anne.

Catering by Fair Trade Lebanon

2010-10-22T16:43:00.004+02:00

Time Out Beirut and Save Beirut Heritage are organizing a screening of Joana Hadjithomas and Khalil Joreige's 1999 feature film "Autour de la Maison Rose" (92mins, Arabic with English subtitles), on Tuesday 26 October, 8pm at the Association de Développement de Gemmayzé.

Fair Trade Lebanon will provide snacks and drinks for all cineclub-goers. A selection of delicious grilled wheat for nibbling, molasses biscuits, refreshing mulberry, rose and bitter orange syrups and jams will be offered on the menu!

Yum Oh! All made by our partner cooperatives...

To attend, visit the Facebook page event or the TimeOutBeirut website.

For more information call 71 535 137

Remember, October 26th, See you there! :)

Article published in L'Orient-Le Jour by the journalist Rana Andraos

2010-10-21T10:52:00.007+02:00

Article is available here.

Fair Trade Lebanon featured in - Top stories - iloubnan.info

2010-10-19T21:27:00.002+02:00

Pictures and report by Anne llcinkas.

The Success Platter or what happened on October 15th....

2010-10-17T15:38:00.007+02:00

To make a Success Platter, you need:

-2 cups of Believers and Visionaries
-250g of Long-term Focus and Commitment

-250g of the rich mixture: Motivation, Solidarity, Ethics

-A handful of Laughter

-1 teaspoon of a few falls

-1 tablespoon of Lessons learnt

For topping:We suggest some white cream made of Ambitions and Projects

Combine all ingredients. Spread in pan and bake until golden brown!
This recipe serves a lot of people, as many as you want, perhaps even a whole nation...

On October 15th, we spent a day with nothing on our mind but the future of our dear Lebanon. Journalists have shown us recognition for the hard work of rural women in their cooperatives and for the cause of Fair Trade...it was a rewarding day...

To all of you with us on that day, Thank You...

Celebrating World Rural Woman's Day on October 15th

2010-10-07T14:38:00.001+02:00

On October 15th 2010, Fair Trade Lebanon will invite local journalists to a field trip day to celebrate the World Rural Woman's Day and raise awareness for the Fair Trade cause and its impact on local disadvantaged communities.

Our organization has programmed visits to two women's cooperatives and partners located in the Bekaa. This field trip will give the journalists the chance to dialogue with those active women, learn about their stories and watch them while they work in their cooperatives.

We will first visit women from the cooperative of Fourzol, in the caza of Zahle to witness the preparation of grape molasses. Then we will head to Rachaya in West Bekaa, where the cooperative will be preparing jams and grilled wheat. Members will openly speak about their daily challenges, their progress and their ambitions.

Pictures and press releases will be available after the 15th, stay posted!

Facts about Rural Women

2010-10-05T14:47:00.004+02:00

In 10 days we celebrate the World Rural Woman's Day, here are some interesting facts and challenges....

Rural Women, mainly farmers, are at least 1.6 billion and represent more than a quarter of the total world population.

Women produce on average more than half of all the food that is grown: up to 80% in Africa, 60% in Asia, between 30 and 40 % in Latin America and Western countries.

Women own only 2% of the land and receive only 1% of all agriculture credit.

Only 5% of all agricultural extension resources are directed to women.

Women represent 2/3 of all illiterate people.

The number of rural women living in poverty has doubled since 1970.

Source: International Federation of Agricultural Producers

Bulgur

2010-09-03T13:54:00.010+02:00

In the region of Kob Elias, in the heart of the Bekaa valley, some 50 km from Beirut, FTL has identified a small family business of four people who decided to fight to stay at home and not to flee their impoverished rural areas.

For over 30 years, they have transformed wheat into bulgur, a very popular product in Lebanon.

The bulgur is a delicate product and its preparation represents a challenge. To achieve a top quality bulgur, you need to apply a specific detailed order for the entire process.

To begin with, Durum wheat is soaked in boiling water for 3 hours, until cooked.

Then it is drained and dried in the sun, extended in circular thin layers over a clean floor. The drying time is a secret.

Dried cooked wheat is then cut up and goes into the mill, according to the desired size: fine, medium, coarse, and whole grains. The different sizes are used for different purposes.

The variety of thick brown bulgur is packed in bags of 500 gr for Fair Trade Lebanon.

This product is available in France, Lebanon and Germany.

What you probably don't know about Bulgur...

"Bulgur is precooked and requires only minimal preparation before eating. Unlike cracked wheat, bulgur is ready to eat after just ten minutes of boiling, roughly the same amount of time that it takes to prepare pasta.

Bulgur has a delicious, mildly nutty flavor.

It is a good source of protein, iron, magnesium , and B vitamins. It is packed with fiber — a 1-cup (182 g) serving of cooked bulgur has 8 grams of fiber and contains very little fat. You can add nutritional punch to casseroles and other dishes by substituting bulgur for converted rice. Incorporating bulgur into your diet is both nutritionally smart and easily accomplished."

Lebanese tabbouleh is a classic example for an easy salad using bulgur. We’ve published the tabbouleh recipe here.

More about Bulgur here.

More pictures at the Mzaar Summer Festival 2010

2010-08-15T10:09:00.007+02:00

Thank you for passing by, for tasting our products and sharing your opinion, for showing a lot of interest and much support !

We will still be at the Festival until tonight 10:00 PM !

At the Mzaar Summer Festival...

2010-08-13T09:05:00.007+02:00

We are at the Mzaar Summer Festival, tonight and until Sunday the 15th.

Sharing some pictures with you on what you should expect...!

wine tasting

Syrup tasting! ...Rose, Bitter Orange, Mulberry

Jams and Syrups

Olive oil soap with laurel leaves

See you there!

Mzaar Summer Festival, 2010 Edition

2010-08-09T22:03:00.008+02:00

Join us from August 11th until 15th at the Faraya Mzaar Summer Festival as Fair Trade Lebanon will proudly bring you

TERROIRS DU LIBAN

You will love our product tastings, our wine degustation, the gift packages and the team of young students raising awareness for Fair Trade.

Opening Hours:
Aug 11th & 12th : from 03:00 until 09:00 pm
Aug 13th, 14th & 15th: from 12:00 until 10:00 pm

Free Entrance, Parking and Valet Parking Service available

Don’t miss out and come visit our stand!

The awaited video: Fair Trade Lebanon on BBC

2010-07-21T16:20:00.006+02:00

Thank you Katy Watson for this valuable report!

Flash News

2010-07-14T11:50:00.008+02:00

The report in which Fair Trade Lebanon has been featured will be running on:

BBC this Friday the 16th 2010 at 10:00 pm and the next day, Saturday the 17th at 08:30 am. Lebanon timing.

Fair Trade Lebanon sits down with producers

2010-07-13T19:13:00.004+02:00

Today, Fair Trade Lebanon headed to the village of Tourbol in the Bekaa of Lebanon; We gathered around 20 members of partner cooperatives and discussed our link in the whole chain of Fair Trade. We raised awareness for the importance of meeting the standards of quality, of transparency and long-term commitment.

Members shared with us their impressions and their expectations from Fair Trade Lebanon. Our main objective is to continue what we have started 4 years ago, to proceed in seeking markets for the products and create a sustainable impact from the work that is being done.

It is not always easy in the current economic environment but FTL is nevertheless growing and our eyes are all looking forward.

Tomorrow is looking so bright...and our projects as well. I will seize this opportunity to congratulate a person, M.Philippe Adaime, for always choosing to do the correct thing instead of the easiest, for also leading the team in such a great spirit that makes us all thrive to always bring the best of us. Philippe, I salute the dedication you are offering and spreading all around!

Readers, make sure you join us in our journey...it's filled with surprises...

Mulberry Smoothie!

2010-07-12T22:00:00.005+02:00

...Our mulberry obsession goes on...

You have fruits and mulberry syrup but you have no idea what to do with them...We are so glad you've checked the blog because this summer you are going to make your kids and your friends the healthiest drink to refresh them!

All you need for one serving, is:

-1 cup of non-fat yogurt
-1 banana
-A couple of mulberries (5 or 6 pieces)
-7 to 8 tablespoons of mulberry syrup

Put all the ingredients in the blender and serve fresh !!

Mulberry Muffins or Cake!

2010-07-08T14:20:00.007+02:00

So yesterday night, I decided to make some mulberry muffins!

I used the recipe below that I found online, but ended up putting the batter in an english cake pan instead of a muffin mold (totally forgot to buy one), nothing changes to the result…except that you can no longer call them “muffins”…it’s simply mulberry cake with a muffin texture!!

I suggest you give it a try, it is extremely easy to make and tastes great. You probably have most of the ingredients at home; I got the sour cream, applesauce and almond extract from Caliprix (Maameltein highway, Lebanon). As for the fresh mulberries, they’re from my aunt’s garden!

Muffin molds and cups can be found in any big supermarket (or head to the 1st floor at Caliprix!).

Recipe for mulberry muffins:

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

• 1/2 cup white sugar

• 1 teaspoon baking powder

• 1/2 teaspoon baking soda

• 1 pinch salt

• 1/2 cup fat free sour cream

• 1/4 cup skim milk

• 2 tablespoons applesauce

• 1 egg

• 1/2 teaspoon almond extract

• 1/2 cup mulberries

Quantity: 8 big muffins

Time of preparation: 15 minutes

Directions:

Preheat oven to 200 degrees C (or 400 degrees F). Grease 6 jumbo muffin cups or line with paper muffin liners.
Combine flour, sugar, baking powder, soda and salt.
In a medium bowl, mix together sour cream, milk, applesauce, egg and almond extract. Stir in flour mixture until batter is smooth.
Fold in mulberries. Spoon batter into prepared muffin cups.
Bake in preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, until a toothpick inserted into center of a muffin comes out clean.

NB: if you don’t use the muffin mold and end up putting the batter in a cake mold, then it will need more than 30 minutes to be done…I left it for about 40-45 minutes. You can decorate it with some icing sugar.

Bon Appetit!!

Mulberries

2010-07-07T14:10:00.002+02:00

It is the Mulberry Season! A very brief season, begins around the end of June until mid July, with lots of mulberry trees in Lebanon; these fruits are at their best when you harvest them and eat them on the spot.

The benefits of mulberries are numerous...

"Mulberry is one of the nutrition treasures of alternative health medicine. Mulberry contains fiber, calcium, phosphorus, potassium, magnesium, carbohydrates, iron and proteins essential to one's good health. The fruit is found mainly in the subtropical regions of Asia, Africa and the Americas and can be black, red, pink or white in color.

Mulberry juice is believed to be a good source of treating anemia and poor blood circulation. The fruit is also a good source of nutrients that lower high blood pressure, reducing the risk of blood clots and strokes."

All eyes on South Africa

2010-07-06T13:53:00.005+02:00

This summer, the FIFA World Cup has got all eyes on South Africa. See how football opens up perspectives for fair trade producers…

Fair Trade Labeling Organizations (FLO) represent 24 organizations working to secure a better deal for producers. FLO own the FAIRTRADE MARK, the product label that certifies that the international Fair Trade standards have been met.

One of the objectives of those standards is to provide an additional Fairtrade Premium to producers, which can be invested in projects that enhance social, economic and environmental development.

In the video, the fairtrade certified winery Stellar Organics is using the fairtrade premium to initiate a recreational project for its workers and their children. The winery is actually building a football field, changing rooms and social clubs.

More here.

Source of Picture , video and info: FLO website

Are you willing to try something new?

2010-07-05T09:45:00.010+02:00

Do you like to innovate, discover and advocate?

This summer, we are looking for young dynamic people to participate with us in promoting our brand TERROIRS DU LIBAN.

Fair Trade Lebanon will be exhibiting and selling its products in 2 important Summer Festivals (during the month of August);

If you want to live this experience with us, show your marketing and communication skills, advocate for change and for the natural produce of Lebanon, then you are most welcome to join our community!

Send us your e-mail and phone number to: r.elchemali@fairtradelebanon.org
we’d be more than happy to get in touch.

With BBC

2010-07-04T14:48:00.010+02:00

Fair Trade Lebanon spends a whole day with Katy Watson, a reporter from the BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation).

The days kicks off with an interview at our premises, followed by a visit to one of our cooperative. Katy interviews women and members of the coop, films the process of mulberry syrup and apricot jam and asks them about difficulties and rural exodus.

All in the aim of presenting alternative solutions to economic challenges facing rural Lebanon.

The story may be running later this week on the BBC Middle-East Business Report. We will be blogging it for sure!

Dear bloggers and followers...

2010-07-04T14:42:00.003+02:00

After days of break, Blogging Fair Trade Lebanon is BACK...this week, expect a lot of great pictures, a BBC report, our Mulberry obsession and much more. All from the heart of Lebanon to your home.

We missed you!

Stay tuned.

For a delicious Lebanese Tabbouleh...

2010-06-15T09:00:00.001+02:00

...You need:

3 bunches of fresh parsley
½ bunch of fresh mint
2 onions
5 medium tomatoes
100g of bulgur or cracked wheat
3 lemons
3 tablespoons of olive oil
Salt and pepper
1 roman lettuce

Preparation time: 40 minutes
Portions: for 6 people

Begin by soaking the raw bulgur in cold water for 20 minutes.

Wash and rinse fresh mint as well as parsley. Chop them up as finely as possible on a board discarding the stems.

Cut tomatoes in dices and chop the onions.

Now squeeze out water from the bulgur using hands and put in a salad bowl.
Add chopped parsley, mint and diced tomatoes.
Rub chopped onions with salt and pepper and add it to the salad. Add lemon juice and olive oil. Mix the whole ingredients.

Put it in the refrigerator for 20 minutes and serve chilled.

You can eat Tabbouleh with lettuce, with pita bread or simply with a fork!
You will have a taste of Lebanon with each bite...that's a guarantee! Alf Sahtein!

*Mom's tabbouleh in the pic ; ) yummy.

Who benefits from Fair Trade?

2010-06-13T09:00:00.000+02:00

The Farmer

Fair trade increases annual incomes of small farmers

Fair trade helps put in place tools for self-sufficiency

Fair trade assists small farmers to stay out of high interest debt

Fair Trade helps build infrastructure in farmers community

The Consumer

Fair trade lets consumers have a clear conscience about their purchases

Fair trade lets consumers assist and empower others with their buying power

Fair trade lets consumers be part of a social justice movement through a simple action

Fair trade allows consumers to initiate a chain of responses that will positively impact the lives of poor coffee farmers and their families.

The Environment

Small farmers aim to use organic methods, which are more environmentally friendly and sustainable

Small farmers disperse their plants throughout a region, a more environmentally friendly method

More facts about Fair Trade, here.

It's the apricot season!

2010-06-10T09:00:00.000+02:00

Rediscover the apricot taste with the Terroirs du Liban Apricot Jam...Try it with croissants, cookies or white cheese!

About Apricots, here and there on the internet...read on:

The Chinese associate the apricot with education and medicine.

The fact that apricot season is very short has given rise to the very common Egyptian Arabic expression "filmishmish" ("in apricot [season]"), generally uttered as a riposte to an unlikely prediction, or as a rash promise to fulfill a request.

Dreaming of apricots, in English folklore, is said to be good luck!

The Turkish idiom "bundan iyisi Şam'da kayısı" (literally, the only thing better than this is an apricot in Damascus) means "it doesn't get any better than this" and used when something is the very best it can be; like a delicious apricot from Damascus.

...I'm falling for this fruit, oh yes.

FTL in L'Officiel Magazine

2010-06-08T12:59:00.007+02:00

Le Savoir "Fair" is a listing about Fair Trade Lebanon published in the French Magazine, L'Officiel (Middle-East Edition) on May 2010.

The product range Terroirs du Liban has been available in Lebanese points of sales since March 2010. It's aim is to promote fair trade values and ancestral recipes through the work of small-scale producers.

More information about us on Facebook, Twitter and http://www.fairtradelebanon.org/

To be savoured with all conscience and respect !

Those small little things...

2010-06-01T17:43:00.006+02:00

...take the time to look for them and the time to experience them.

Fair Trade Lebanon has spent yesterday 3 hours in a classroom with 28 graduate students in Advertising and Marketing at the USJ University. The discussion was about Responsible Marketing (Benoit and myself participated from FTL) and Eco-Tourism (explained by M.Pascal Abdallah, a pioneer & consultant in Eco-Tourism in Lebanon).

We had set forward the importance of marketing...marketing not only a product, but a story, a reality, a person. Our approach is to quench the thirst of a consumer with a deeper experience, a social impact. And the small thing in this is the satisfaction that comes from a state of mind, that of choosing to support long-term sustainability. Our society has imposed on us a very fast rhythm of life...we consume, work and live so fast that we forget and often refuse to take the time to Stop. and See the small things.

Eco-Tourism is about contributing financially, physically and scientifically to the well being of our protected natural sites. It's about hearing the story behind the smallest elements defining our ecosystem. Believe it or not, if we don't react to the incompetence reigning in our country, we will head right into the wall. Our children and grandchildren will hold us responsible for our passiveness. And we will live with the guilt.

The society as a whole must take action; M. Everyone will not save Lebanon alone and we know that, but Universities and Students, Governments and Researchers, Specialized NGOs and Careful citizens WILL. I want to thank Professor Zeina Adaime for having chosen to point out the small things and for proposing new solutions and ideas to her students. It is about capacity building and about completely assuming the role of education for a greener and more responsible future.

Sometimes it takes one leap to create a thousand others, just like a ricochet on water. Isn't that simple?

Thank you for having taken the time to read…

Fair Trade has 1001 destinations for You

2010-05-31T13:20:00.008+02:00

You are probably sitting on your couch or behind your desk at work or at home...We're guessing the sun is probably up and you feel it's quiet warm, you are probably wondering which window to open and let some wind in. Lebanon is actually starting to get hot...We guess we're on the same pace as Canada and Europe today.

So here is the deal...we selected some products that would freshen up your day. Products of Fair Trade, some we tasted & loved, and others we would like to come across real soon.

The aim is to give you a glimpse of many items available in the realm of Fair Trade and show you how this movement thrives to be truly global and affect as many small producers as possible.

ETHIQUABLE launched a Thai Rice beer! Must be great with barbecues.

You can also taste Alter Eco's Green Tea leaves picked in India and flavored with Jasmine

Or how about some spicy banana chips from Ecuador? (We tasted those, so crunchy!)

Also, OXFAM has selected a wide range of coffee beans exported from Latin American countries

ALTER ECO brings us some great chocolate as well; The white Chocolate with Coco is deliciously addictive. You will eat the whole bar all by yourself (trust me.)

We still haven't mentioned the Mango Juice from Peru, the Cashew Nuts from Africa, the Sugar Cane from Haiti...Ah this is mind-torturing!!

Welcome to our World...You are now stuck with us!

Have you heard of Lebweb.com?

2010-05-30T08:35:00.004+02:00

..Whether it's Arts, Business, Computers, Government, Education, Health, News, Recreation, Environment, Shopping, Culture, Social Organizations, Travel and Tourism...it's all listed on Lebweb.com!

Lebweb's mission is to organize a wealth of information about Lebanon, making it universally accessible and useful.

The website has recently listed Fair Trade Lebanon, here.

By using Lebweb.com, you will most certainly find the information you're looking for quickly and effectively. Take a look at their directory here. The guys didn't miss any important reference that's for sure!

Follow the updates on Twitter @lebweb

Purchase with Responsability

2010-05-28T10:26:00.007+02:00

Your choices matter and make a difference!

Dear Bloggers and Friends!

During one week, you can enjoy a 15% DISCOUNT on our products sold at the FTL office (in our modest showroom) and a FREE HOME DELIVERY:

Our offer includes:

1 Fruit in Syrup: you may choose between Eggplants & Almonds, Whole Figs, Diced Pumpkins and Dates stuffed with Almonds.

1 Bottle of Virgin Olive Oil, 50 cl… savour it ZAATAR, salads and steaks!!

1 Bottle of Ketchup Organic, made from IMC certified organic tomatoes, 100% natural. Try it with your pasta to replace industrial tomato paste, with your grilled steaks and home-made pizzas.

1 Syrup: you have the choice between Mulberry syrup, Rose Syrup or our famous Bitter Orange Syrup! Ever had cakes decorated with cranberries and dipped in Mulberry syrup? You don’t know what you are missing!.

1 Pack of Grilled & Salted WHEAT (250g), nibble it as an appetizer, delicious, light and very healthy!

So enjoy our offer with the approach of summer...ALL THE ABOVE FOR ONLY 20$, delivered to you in Lebanon via phone call or by commenting this post.

We look forward to meeting you!!

Phone: 05 - 952 153

Bonne dégustation !

Summer is here and so are we!

2010-05-24T15:06:00.006+02:00

This summer, go crazy, no workouts for losing weight no...Just pure indulgence.

If you are craving some sun and summer breeze, then we have all what you need...Bitter orange peels in syrup, figs and sesame, Dates and almonds, Pumpkins, Eggplants and Rose petals.

Let the Mediterranean swift you off your feet and take you on a culinary journey. Savour exotic flavors of natural syrups...

With just a little water, treat yourself for a mulberry drink! Or try the rose syrup with your cakes and the bitter orange one with your fresh cheese.

The good news is that all of the above is probably just one click or a couple of miles away from you.

...So tell us, are you going to break? ; )

In Lebanon, we are at: Aziz (Zalka highway), Carpaccio (Rabieh main road), Caliprix (Maameltein highway), St Rita's House (Achrafieh, Sassine road), O&C Fresh Market (Antelias highway), Organically Food for Life (Jal el Dib, Mallah Yammine building).

Call our office for home delivery in Lebanon + 961 (0) 5 952 153 (our showroom is available if u wish to buy products in Hazmieh, Beirut).

Online, we are on Lebanonmart.com for worldwide delivery through DHL.

In Montreal, send us your address and we'll direct you to the closest boutique.

In France and Europe, buy them on Artisanat SEL's website.

L'Orient Le Jour & Fair Trade Lebanon

2010-05-20T09:47:00.007+02:00

After the Press Conference…the articles…

Fair Trade Lebanon thanks the journalist Rana Andraos from L’Orient Le Jour, the French daily in Lebanon, for her valuable article and support. Today, more than ever, FTL is dedicated to raise awareness for fair trade and local unity in Lebanon. It is our responsibility to contribute to the improvement of our society.

In the article, Rana highlights FTL’s membership to the World Fair Trade Organization, as well as its current implementation in the Lebanese market and the success story behind FTL’s new-born product, the fair trade WINE. Not only is it a Lebanese wine produced by a cooperative, but its grapes have actually been cultivated as a replacement to illicit crops in the region of Deir El Ahmar!

Dear readers, we are proud to give you stories of achievements and worthy of scenarios! All we want from you is to enjoy them with us, to get into these positive vibes and play your part as active citizens, consumers and decision makers.

Lesepicuriens.fr blogs about us!

2010-05-19T15:36:00.002+02:00

An epicurean is a person whose devoted to the pursuit of sensual pleasure, especially to the enjoyment of good food and comfort!

We met Benedicte during our exhibition at the National Forum of Fair Trade last week in Lille. She attended our product tasting, wrote down some quick recipes and posted a note about us in her blog.

It's funny how Cuisine can create common interests and surprises!

Why not add up a Lebanese touch to your french menus?

You can check out the post here.

Press Conference 17th of May 2010

2010-05-18T08:45:00.009+02:00

Fair Trade (FT) continues expanding in Lebanon and Fair Trade Lebanon strengthens its position as a key player in sustainable development in Lebanon.

In fact, Fair Trade Lebanon (FTL), the NGO founded in January 2006 by Philippe Adaime, Samir Abdelmalak, Johanne Karkour, Gabriel Debbané and Jad Bitar in order to support small producers in the South, the Bekaa valley and the North of Lebanon, finds itself today rewarded by the World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO), which recognizes it as a member of this organization.

The motto of Fair Trade being "Trade not Aid", it entails its actors to offer fair prices to producers, adopt the principles of transparency and preserve agreement and continuity in trade partnerships. It aims to help small producers –located in the South in general- to sell their products in "Northern" countries, without intermediaries, in a transparent manner from producer to buyer.

Thus, during its short history, FTL has successfully developed more than fifty food-processed products from a dozen cooperatives, which are now distributed in France and Canada. Over 72% of sales revenues go directly to producers' cooperatives, and this activity affects approximately 350 direct beneficiaries. Also, by being present at the National Forum of Fair Trade in Lille, France, during the Fair Trade fortnight, FTL has managed to establish new partnerships in Belgium and Germany.

Finally, and following the growing Lebanese demand for products of quality and social solidarity, FTL launches its brand Terroirs du Liban in local market, through selective outlets, small supermarkets and over the internet.

For more information about our activities, you may visit our website and follow our Facebook page.

Day 3 Lille Forum: If you like Lebanon you will love this !

2010-05-09T17:48:00.007+02:00

Philippe Adaime, co-founder of FTL participates in a debate around FAIR TRADE IN ECONOMIES OF CRISIS

FTL introduces lebanese jams the french way !!

Cuisine and yum oh! Zaatar, Olive Oil, Jams, Syrups and fair trade WINE!

French people tasting our products and discovering new flavors and aromas...was quite a success...

Awaited pic, traditional tarbouch!

2010-05-09T17:36:00.002+02:00

At the forum in Lille

Tarbouchna mish 3al Tour Eiffel, tarbouchna 3a rasna...!!

FTL is live from Lille, France

2010-05-08T11:36:00.004+02:00

Day One, 8th of May: The race, communication, work and fun are all ON !

Our stand at the French National Fair Trade Forum

Product tasting: Almonds, grilled wheat, zaatar & olive oil, Fleur de Sel & Capers

More pics of us wearing traditional Tarbouch and info coming up!!

Au revoir Beyrouth..

2010-05-06T11:00:00.002+02:00

Philippe, Benoit and Randa headed to France.

First stop today is Paris.

We are meeting with the CCFD (Comite Catholique contre la Faim et pour le Developpement) and the SIDI (Solidarite Internationale pour le Developpement et l'Investissement) representatives.

Later at night, diner with Amid, good friend of ours and former trainee at FTL!

We are sleeping in Paris and heading to Lille by train tomorrow morning.

Nobody is tired, yet.

:)

Join us in Paris on the 12th of May 2010

2010-05-04T14:51:00.003+02:00

Paris Paris here we come...

Fair Trade Lebanon will have the pleasure to meet you at the SIDI (Solidarite Internationale pour le Developpement et l'Investissement).
You're most welcome to come and take part of the discussion around Fair Trade in Lebanon, its opportunities and challenges.

Address:
12 rue Guy de la Brosse – 75005 Paris (Metro Jussieu)
Date and time:
Wednesday 12th of May, from 6:00 pm until 8:00 pm.

You can join the event on Facebook here.

We will be in Lille, FRANCE

2010-05-03T12:00:00.003+02:00

Fair Trade Lebanon will be in Lille at the National Forum of Fair Trade. Pay a visit to our stand in the Food section.

Join us 0n Sunday the 9th of May:

-From 11:00 am until 12:00 pm : FTL will host a cuisine workshop and share some Mediterranean recipes with the crowd.

-From 2:00 pm until 3:00 pm: FTL will take part of a general debate around the topic of Development and Fair Trade in economies of crisis.

Practical Info:
Dates: from 8th until 10th of May
Time: Everyday from 10:00 am until 6:00 pm.
Address : Lille Grand Palais - hall Paris 1, Boulevard des Cités Unies 59000 Lille
Website: http://www.forumequitable.org/

Home Delivery Worldwide!

2010-05-02T21:04:00.002+02:00

Fair Trade Lebanon goes worldwide with Lebanonmart.com, a Lebanese shopping mall on the Internet!

With Lebanonmart, your orders will be shipped from Lebanon right to your door anywhere in the world. You can find a wide variety of Lebanese and oriental food, sweets, souvenirs, handcrafts, music, DVD, books and more.
The finest Lebanese brands combined to a very secured website and great service. Also, the team is very dynamic and is ready to receive your emails and phone calls for any specifications you may need.

Search for our fair trade products by brand, type “Terroirs du Liban” and access the whole range available. Or click here.

So no more excuses, to all my cousins living in the US, and all my friends studying in Montreal, and all…. Okay okay you got my point…Give It A Try and let us hear your feedback!!

Yalla bye ! ; )

An Inconvenient Truth

2010-05-01T17:51:00.006+02:00

Enjoy this song...

"I need to wake up" by Melissa Etheridge.

2005 was the hottest year on the record.

We release 70 million tons of CO2 into the atmosphere every single day.

In 2000, it rained in Antarctica.

In 2004, for the first time in recorded history, there was a hurricane in the South Atlantic.

Stand up and Speak out.

2010-04-29T04:53:00.004+02:00

CIR club & Fair Trade Lebanon at NDU's Open Doors

The Club of International Relations (C.I.R) at the Notre Dame University (N.D.U) took part on the 23rd of April 2010 in the Open Doors event under the theme of “Brain Circus”.

The goal was to link academics and fun while attracting the largest number possible of school students interested in studying Political science, International Affairs, Public Administration and Diplomacy. To concretize the main idea, many partners were necessary.

The CIR club highlighted the concept of “Food Sovereignty” by proposing Lebanese traditional biscuits “kaak” with some Fair-trade Jams offered by “Fair Trade Lebanon”. Brochures and pins encouraging Fair Trade were distributed to students who showed a great interest and enthusiasm in helping underprivileged regions in Lebanon sell their own products.
The club also raised awareness for other issues such as Book Copyrights and Animal protection in Lebanon. Many alternatives were discussed with participants from different schools in Lebanon.

Last but not least, president of the IR club Michele Fenianos tells us “it was nice to discover that teenagers are not only fun-oriented but they are also interested in learning about core issues that play essential roles in their communities. In other words, Brain does not exclude Circus. It simply enlightens it!”.

Much thanks to the club, the activists behind it and the university of NDU!
Never think twice before standing up and speaking out.

Follow CIR on Facebook here and stay updated about their upcoming events.

Tweeting Fair Trade Lebanon

2010-04-28T06:36:00.006+02:00

Twitter is a real-time information network powered by people all around the world that lets you share and discover what’s happening now.Twitter asks “what’s happening” and makes the answer spread across the globe to millions, immediately.

"Whether it’s breaking news, a local traffic jam, a deal at your favorite shop or a funny pick-me-up from a friend, Twitter keeps you informed with what matters most to you today and helps you discover what might matter to you most tomorrow."

By following our page @FairTradeLeb you will be able to view, on your twitter home page, very short messages about us that mention our upcoming activities, or link you to our blog, Facebook page etc.

Stay tuned !

Lebanon: Terroirs du Liban at Caliprix !

2010-04-25T13:38:00.007+02:00

Fair Trade Stand at Caliprix

Here's the scoop: Fair Trade Lebanon is very proud to tell you that its brand TERROIRS DU LIBAN is now available in Lebanon at Caliprix (Maameltein Highway).

Caliprix has been offering for years products that suit all tastes and cuisines. When there, you will come across our display stand of fair trade produces (syrups, olive oil, condiments, jams, seeds...) and will discover how their variety fully embraces our Lebanese authentic identity.

By purchasing Terroirs du Liban you are directly supporting small producers and contributing to Improving Lives...

Enjoy and Stay tuned for more!!

Call our office for info in Lebanon : 05-952 153

Today is Earth Day!

2010-04-22T10:12:00.010+02:00

Ouyoun el Siman

Ehden

Byblos

Mount-Lebanon

Today is earth day, organizations all over the world are praising the protection of the environment. And today I decided to bring you Lebanon, as a piece of heaven.

I could discuss the need for renewable energy, the purpose of recycling, the brilliant European ideas regarding car pooling, green vehicles, environmental policies, water waste management, sustainable houses, organic clothes, organic shampoos (oh yes.), cycling and public transportation, but I'm just not feeling like it.

Today, I will ask you to open your eyes and your heart and take a look at our country through a lens, through the pictures of a photographer. No not just a photographer, but an adventurer and a believer.

Clement Tannouri has spent hours, weeks and months of time searching for absolutely breath-taking views of our land from the sky of Lebanon. His work is illustrated in his book, Liban : Sur la Terre Comme Au Ciel.
Some thank him for showing us what seems to be God’s view of Lebanon from up above; others wonder how is it possible for people to still fight and continue harming this creation.

So yes, it is indeed Earth Day, but tomorrow, is also a day to praise our country and our planet. And no I didn't mention the need for sustainable development in Lebanon for some topics need some serious pessimism and anger to come out properly...but I, today, am rather happy in Lebanon...

Join here Clement Tannouri's group on Facebook.

Promoting Fair Trade in Lebanon

2010-04-21T10:11:00.003+02:00

Article by Dana Halawi:

Zurayk praised the role of FTL but said that fair trade in itself cannot remain in the realm of NGO's. "We strive to make changes toward global justice, and this cannot come from only 50 farmers out of 200, 000," he said. Instead, he argued, fair trade can only become powerful when it becomes the dominant form of trade, and everyone should work to achieve that.

Zurayk also exposed the problems facing farmers around the world with respect to commodities such as coffee, rice, and tea. He argued that the stock exchange market, and not the farmers, is setting prices--which often prove to be unfair to farmers.

Read the full AUB News Highlight here.

What if you could change the world?

2010-04-19T14:01:00.011+02:00

Coldplay singer, Chris Martin joins efforts with Oxfam for the Make Trade Fair campaign.

"Why campaign on trade?

World trade rules have been developed by the rich and powerful on the basis of their narrow commercial interests. Rich countries and powerful corporations have captured a disproportionate share of the benefits of trade, leaving developing countries and poor people worse off. Trade rules should be judged on their contribution to poverty reduction, respect for human rights, and environmental sustainability.

Instead of robbing half the world of a proper living, trade could help millions of poor farmers and workers in developing countries beat poverty, and change their lives for good.

But this will not happen unless countries change the way they trade.
So we’re campaigning hard to make sure they do." -Oxfam International

More here.

"We forget that we can become part of the influential body ourselves, just by grouping together or speaking louder. If no one speaks, no one shouts then no one does anything. And that's why I speak, that's why I shout and I do my bit and you do your bit and that's how change happens" -Chris Martin.

Mosaic Tripoli

2010-04-14T11:29:00.003+02:00

Group discovers the city : visit to the Souk, Mosque, the famous Citadel and the Port of Tripoli.

Pics taken by Kevin, our FTL trainee!

More of Mosaic...

2010-04-13T08:41:00.006+02:00

In baalbeck

Wine producer talks to the group about Lebanese agriculture and challenges in the region of Deir el Ahmar.

Enjoying a traditional Lebanese lunch in our partner cooperative in Rachaya – West Bekaa. Sahtein!

Saturday night: Group sleeps at Eco-lodge in Taanayel, a small village reconstructed in traditional methods, promoting sustainable development and authentic living.

Mosaic : Beyond Differences

2010-04-12T16:00:00.016+02:00

When you collect small pieces of colored stones and glasses, you get an artistic Mosaic design; when you collect colored individuals, you probably get something that looks like this:

Fair Trade Lebanon has organized a cultural week-end and a fair trade tour for a French group of visitors. Their trip to Lebanon falls under a program called "Mosaic".

Mosaic...because beyond all the differences that exist between societies and cultures, the possibility of sharing one common big picture should never be underestimated.

It is the Lebanese conviviality and mixture of communities that has attracted them to come to this country. Their program includes visits to small producers, rural areas, touristic sites and discussions with professors and diverse important religious figures.

Ahla w Sahla, sharaftouna !

You don't need 500 dollars !

2010-04-08T21:42:00.009+02:00

Urgent need to escape?!

Grab your backpack and sunglasses and follow Fair Trade Lebanon.

Yesterday our team chose to work outside of our Beiruti office and chase some nature! We drove up to Deir El Ahmar.

You don't need to pay those 500 dollars to travel abroad and vent out. You got it all right here in Lebanon!

The city can be very overwhelming and our day was a real escape and a reason to look into the core topics of our organization. Today we are at a crossroad in our projects. Diverse opportunities are laying ahead for us.

The whole program had a participative approach, we all shared our impressions and reviewed together our strategies, redefined our objectives for the future and the nature of the image we want to send out.

What is it that we are promoting? Are we only showing our managerial expertise or are we tackling the real deal? Fair Trade is about responsibility. It begins with the small producers we accompany and goes into every other part of the work. Responsibility of starting a project and pursuing it, responsibility of looking for quality and providing it always, responsibility of lifting all of our partners with us, responsibility of preserving our weak land;

We hold on tight to our mission and want to remain a vehicle for our disadvantaged producers. Tempted by their empowerment and working to their benefit.

Back in 2006, Fair Trade Lebanon was a test, a dream for some and a craziness for others. Only 3 people managed it when orders were made, once or twice a year.
Today, we represent a total of 10 people: full timers, coordinators, interns and 5 dedicated founders. Along with the members of the cooperatives, we are one big family.

The brand Terroirs du Liban has crossed many borders and has made it to France, Belgium, Canada, Germany, Holland. All thanks to team work, spirit and belief in Fair Trade and in Lebanon.

Our green journey was very refreshing and has left us all oh so grateful..
Thank You.