STIRRING THE SOCIAL CONSCIENCE

 

Whilst climate change and its impact on our planet should be high on everyone’s agenda (many would argue it should be at the very top), I am more concerned about the disparity between rich and poor; the haves and have nots. In the developed world we have free access to education and health care, sufficient food to eat, a roof over our heads, and do not live-in fear for our lives. By contrast, populations throughout much of the world do not have the time or the energy to worry about climate change; they are too pre-occupied with survival. 

There is much that we can do to improve their lot, whilst supporting efforts to save the wider planet in the long term. 

Whilst all large corporations now have a ‘Corporate Social Responsibility’ agenda, reading between the lines reveals the extent to which in many cases they are just paying lip-service to anything but shareholders’ profits. 

We need to be cautious each time we are urged to do business with a particular company where, in exchange for out patronage, a percentage of the profits are donated to good causes; not a percentage of the price paid, just a percentage of the profit. In many cases this equates to less than 1p in the pound. 

By contrast, smaller, ethical companies, who strive to reduce their carbon footprint, whilst supporting producers in developing countries through charities such as Fairtrade, seem more willing to put their hands in their pockets to provide meaningful support.  

Given recent events, we have all had cause to re-evaluate the way we live. Some sectors of our population have suffered considerably, and it is understandable that the view of many is that charity should begin at home.  

With this in mind, I recently discovered Team Canteen CIC, a collaboration of independent hospitality and events businesses from Bristol which has developed inclusive projects creating connections through food. Believing in the importance of good quality, healthy, nutritious food for everyone, and equal access to employment opportunities in the hospitality industry, Team Canteen aims to alleviate hunger and create work-based opportunities for young people. They have been providing free meals for vulnerable Bristolians, including the homeless, and providing paid work experience programmes for young people who would usually face barriers to access. 

A keen supporter of this initiative, Bristol-based Wogan Coffee has created a bespoke blend of their Direct Trade, Cup of Excellence Nicaraguan La Bastilla P3 and Colombian La Laguna coffee; for every kilo sold £2.50 is donated to the charity. That is what I call a meaningful contribution. As consumers, we would do well to consider where we choose to spend our money so that others can benefit. It is only by ensuring that those less fortunate than us are given a helping hand that we can hope to collectively reduce the impact of global poverty and the associated challenges facing us in relation to our environment and the climate. For more information contact teamcanteen@teamlove.org