Why Scotland’s Wellbeing and Sustainable Development Bill Matters for Fair Trade 

At Scottish Fair Trade, we’ve just submitted our response to the Scottish Parliament’s consultation on the proposed Wellbeing and Sustainable Development (Scotland) Bill. This Bill has the potential to change the way decisions are made across Scotland’s public sector, and we believe it could be a turning point for ensuring Scotland lives up to its promise as a Fair Trade Nation. 

What’s the Bill about? 

The Bill aims to make wellbeing and sustainable development primary considerations for public bodies. That means public authorities, from local councils to national agencies, would need to think carefully about the long-term impacts of their decisions on people, communities, and the environment. 

It also proposes the creation of a Future Generations Commissioner who would hold decision-makers to account, ensuring policies support both today’s citizens and generations to come. 

Why is this important for Fair Trade? 

Sustainable development isn’t only about Scotland’s environment and economy, it’s also about our impact on people around the world. The food, clothing, and products we rely on every day are part of global supply chains, often involving farmers and workers in the Global South. 

If public bodies are required to act on sustainable development, then Fair Trade procurement and partnerships offer a clear and practical way to evidence their commitment. Fair Trade ensures that producers are paid fairly, that workers’ rights are protected, and that communities can adapt to the challenges of climate change. 

By embedding these principles into law, Scotland can show real leadership – not just by improving wellbeing here at home, but by taking responsibility for the global impact of our choices. 

Our response to the consultation 

We welcomed the Bill but also joined other organisations in calling for stronger language. In particular, we argued that: 

• Public bodies should not only have “due regard” but be required to promote and deliver sustainable development and wellbeing. 

• Definitions of “wellbeing” and “sustainable development” must recognise Scotland’s global interdependence – our wellbeing is tied to the rights and dignity of people in supply chains worldwide. 

• The Future Generations Commissioner should consider Scotland’s global responsibilities, not only domestic impacts. 

In short, we believe this Bill is a vital chance to hardwire fairness, justice, and sustainability into Scotland’s policymaking. 

What happens next? 

The consultation has now closed, and the responses will inform how the Bill progresses through Parliament. We’ll keep our members and supporters updated as it develops – and we’ll continue to champion Fair Trade as a key part of Scotland’s commitment to wellbeing and sustainable development. 

Louise Davies, 25 August 2025