As the founder of Lupine Lane Co., sustainability and ethical practices are at the heart of everything we do. I’m really excited to dive into something that’s super important for us as a company and for the world—Fairtrade Labelling Organizations International, or FLO for short. If you’ve been hearing more about Fairtrade and wondering why it matters, let’s chat about it in a way that makes sense without all the corporate jargon.
At Lupine Lane, we’re all about being mindful of the impact we have, not just on the people who wear our jewelry but on the people who help create it and the planet itself. FLO plays a massive role in that effort, and today I want to share why it’s so important.
What is FLO, Anyway?
Okay, so FLO—Fairtrade International, as it’s now called—is an organization that’s all about making sure workers and farmers in developing countries are treated fairly. Their mission is to create better trading conditions, ensure fair wages, and promote sustainability in the production of everyday items like coffee, chocolate, and even materials like cotton and gold.
That little Fairtrade logo you’ve probably seen on food products? It’s not just decoration—it’s a symbol that the people behind those products are being paid fairly for their work and that the environment wasn’t trashed to make it happen. It’s a win-win, and that’s exactly why we care so much about FLO here at Lupine Lane.
Why FLO is Important to Lupine Lane Co.
When I started Lupine Lane, I knew I wanted to create something that wasn’t just about making beautiful jewelry—I wanted to build a brand that’s thoughtful, sustainable, and ethical. Partnering with FLO-certified suppliers is one way we do that. We make sure that the materials we use, like the gold in our pieces, are sourced in a way that respects both the workers and the planet.
It’s important to me that the people contributing to our products are being treated fairly, working in safe conditions, and earning wages that allow them to take care of their families. We partner with suppliers who uphold these values because we believe that beautiful things shouldn’t come at the expense of someone else’s well-being.
At the end of the day, what we create at Lupine Lane isn’t just jewelry—it’s a statement. A statement that says we care about how our pieces are made, the hands that craft them, and the future of our planet. FLO helps us ensure that we’re doing this in the best way possible.
How FLO Helps Communities
One of the most inspiring things about FLO and Fairtrade practices is how the benefits spread far beyond individual workers. The Fairtrade Premium—extra money that’s invested back into the community—is a game-changer for so many families. I’ve read stories about farmers who, thanks to Fairtrade, have been able to send their kids to school, invest in healthcare, and even start new businesses. That’s huge!
It’s a ripple effect. When workers are paid fairly, they can improve their own lives and the lives of their families, and that in turn strengthens the whole community. It’s not just about creating good jobs—it’s about creating a brighter, more sustainable future for everyone involved.
At Lupine Lane, this philosophy really hits home. The artisans and workers who are part of our supply chain matter to us, and we want to know that they’re thriving—not just surviving. Knowing that FLO-certified suppliers are paying their workers fairly gives us the peace of mind that we’re making a positive impact with every piece we create.
Why Should You Care About FLO?
I get it—sometimes it feels like the world is filled with things we should care about, and it can be overwhelming. But the beauty of FLO is that it empowers all of us to make a difference in small, everyday ways. Every time you buy something with that Fairtrade label, you’re helping support fair wages, better working conditions, and sustainable practices.
As consumers, we have so much power. The products we buy, the companies we support—these are decisions that shape industries and the lives of countless people. By choosing Fairtrade, you’re saying, “I want my money to do more than just buy stuff. I want it to make a difference.”
Here at Lupine Lane, we believe in creating products with intention, and FLO helps guide us in that mission. When you purchase a piece from us, you’re not just buying jewelry—you’re supporting a system that treats people and the planet with respect. And that’s something to feel good about!
What About the Price?
I know what you might be thinking—Fairtrade products can sometimes be more expensive, right? Yeah, that can be true. But think of it like this: those few extra dollars are going towards making sure that the person who grew the coffee beans, or mined the gold, or made the fabric is able to live with dignity. They’re going towards building schools, improving healthcare, and creating sustainable farming methods.
At Lupine Lane, we think that’s worth it. And we know our customers do too. When you invest in something that’s thoughtfully made, you’re not just getting a product—you’re contributing to something bigger. You’re helping to build a world where fairness and sustainability are the norm, not the exception.
Moving Forward with Fairtrade in Mind
As Lupine Lane continues to grow, I’m excited to keep expanding our commitment to Fairtrade practices. The journey doesn’t end with just choosing ethical suppliers—it’s an ongoing mission to make sure that every decision we make supports a fair, sustainable future for all.
I hope you’ll join us in that mission. Whether it’s by shopping Fairtrade, educating yourself on the importance of ethical trade, or simply spreading the word, every bit helps. Together, we can create a more equitable world where beauty and fairness go hand in hand.
Thanks for being part of the Lupine Lane community and for supporting a vision that values both people and the planet. It’s not just a trend—it’s the future we’re all building, piece by piece.