THIS week is the first in Fairtrade Fortnight – a concerted effort to  highlight climate  issues and the affect change is having on the foods we love and the communities who produce them.

Those changes are making crops like bananas, cocoa and coffee more difficult to grow. Combined with trade restrictions and the search for profit communities growing these crops are being pushed to the brink. 

However, the Co-op is attempting to help those who are beleaguered by promoting  Fairtrade products on its shelves.  

And by choosing Fairtrade products in store, you too can help make a difference and support farmers and growers in the world's poorest nations.

Why not make a swap commitment for the rest of the year? Look out for the FAIRTRADE Mark on products.

At Co-op, it's easy to make the switch to Fairtrade. 100% of our own-brand tea, coffee, bananas, cocoa, bagged sugar and African roses are Fairtrade. The Co-op is also the world's largest seller of Fairtrade wine.

The Co-op has been supporting the Fairtrade movement for 29 years. The company believes that if everyone makes a choice to buy Fairtrade, we can overcome unfairness in the food chain and have a meaningful impact.

Cate Hickey, Fairtrade Manager at Co-op said: "The world is facing a climate crisis – it is affecting the foods we love and the communities who produce them.

"But by choosing Fairtrade, you can support producers on the frontline of the climate crisis and help to protect the future of our food.

"At Co-op, Fairtrade is core to our vision of co-operating for a fairer world. Co-op's commitment to Fairtrade means producers are provided with better incomes and training to adapt to climate challenges.

"You can take part in Fairtrade Fortnight by simply choosing Fairtrade, by spreading the word or by hosting a Fairtrade Fortnight event. Together, we can champion Fairtrade. Remember, what you put in your basket can make a positive change to lives around the world and the planet we love."

Why not host a Fairtrade coffee morning using Fairtrade products? An even have a game of Fairtrade bingo. You can download a game pack here.

Co-op membership helps support local causes and the Co-op's national charity partners. See www.coop.co.uk/membership to find out more or become a Co-op Member.