I found out about RugMark today on the fabulous site, Apartment Therapy, and I wanted to help spread the word.  RugMark is an organization that intends to stop forced child labor in rug factories in South East Asia.
RugMark is “devoted to building schools, programs and opportunities” for the 300,000 children that work in the handmade rug industry. Their tactic is to put pressure on rug manufacturers and importers, who receive the prestigious RugMark certification only if they agree to the foundation’s no-child-labor guidelines and random inspections of their factories.
The RugMark certification guarantees that
- no child labor was used to make the carpet you’re buying
- RugMark inspectors have visited the factory where the rug was made
- a portion of the price will go to educate former child laborers
- you’re helping to build a market for rugs made without the use of child labor
And, best of all, if you buy RugMark certified carpets, you’re contributing to a successful campaign–since 1994, the organization has decreased child labor in the South East Asian carpet industry by two-thirds.
Here’s to great ideas and capitalism in action. Learn more on the official RugMark website.
You can also read We Need to Go to School: Voices of the Rugmark Children ($6.75)
See also:
- Angela Adams RugMark Carpets
- Carpet Deal in the New Year – Self Stick Carpet Tiles
- Is It Time to Clean the Carpet?
- Organic Carpet Cleaner
- Slippery Steps? Discover Rubber Stair Treads
- Discount Rugs – Cambridge Stair Treads Navy
- How-To-Guide: Removing Tough Stains From Your Carpet
- Area Rug Deal – Discount Blair Windflower Rug
- Crate and Barrel Summer Sale – Discount Rugs
About homegarden
