The Aussies are currently investigating the creation of an ethical quality mark which would be provided to products from supply chains free of labour, environment and animal exploitation.
The recommendation is:
A new Australian Ethical Quality Mark should be devised, with a budget allocation of $8 million, to reflect the incorporation of defined ethical standards relating to labour conditions, animal welfare and environmental sustainability in TCF production and supply chains. This will enhance consumer choice and confer competitive advantage on firms that achieve certification.
Of course nobody ever shopped their way to a revolution but any move that helps ameliorate the impact of capitalism on the vulnerable is a good idea.
It’s also an idea that New Zealand should adopt when (if?) the Australians do because, while environmentally friendly products are getting easier to find, it’s becoming harder and harder to find labour-friendly stuff – especially since the demise of the superb No Sweat store.
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