It can seem a daunting task to learn about every company you purchase goods from, but even small efforts to buy “fair trade” and slavery-free goods can make a difference. By understanding which companies are doing good work, and those who are not, you become an empowered consumer. Knowing the goods that are often made by trafficked or exploited individuals will also assist you as you shop or begin to advocate.

• Take a look at the US Department of Labor’s list of common products connected to child labor.
  
  
• Carefully consider when consuming products from the following slavery-ridden industries such as coffee, cotton, rubber, rice, sugarcane, tobacco, electronics, clothing, gold, diamonds, seafood, knockoff handbags, and pornography.
  
  
• To see how your favorite products and companies scored on social & ethical issues, check out sites like www.betterworldshopper.org or the Australia-based www.ethical.org.au/theguide which highlights many American products.
  
  
• Evaluate your consumption habits to determine how many slaves made your goods at www.slaveryfootprint.org
  
  
• With 25% of fish worldwide having “dirty” supply chains, complete Greenpeace’s www.seafood.greenpeaceusa.org to learn how your grocery chain fares.
  
  
• Buy fare trade certified goods when possible to ensure fair wages and working conditions.