apartment therapy changing the world, one room at a time

I can't and won't speak to the organic and fair-trade issues other countries face, but I can say that out here, farmers who sell directly to the public can't always "cut the deal" people have previously found in markets like those in California. Those Cali markets aren't always stocked with organic or fair trade produce, though. The farmers here sell at prices that will help them sustain their farms, from growing produce organically to hauling their produce around to sell it. Like you said, it's about doing whatever works. I'd assume that many farmers in third-world countries, especially startup farmers, do not usually have the luxury of choosing green methods that would also allow them to keep their farms going and feed their families. I wonder how available material and education for sustainable farming is in other countries--it's not exactly hugely prevalent here!

I didn't join in on loaning to this farmer, but as a longtime Kiva loaner, I was thrilled to see your posting. Kiva is such a great organization and letting people know about it is a wonderful thing

Here's something to remember: not all Kiva borrowers are farmers.

So people who, for instance, don't agree with pesticide use can still participate by loaning to other types of businesses...like weaving, selling household goods, auto repair, tailoring. It's all worthwhile and very rewarding.