The United Nations General Assembly has declared 2025 as the second International Year of Cooperatives. The theme this year is “Cooperatives Build a Better World.” This worldwide effort shines a light on the important role that cooperatives play in supporting the UN’s goal for a more sustainable future.
How do cooperatives support sustainable development?
Cooperatives are member-owned and operate based on shared principles like democratic governance, community focus, and equitable distribution of benefits. They exist in various areas including agriculture, finance, healthcare, housing, and education. By focusing on these different areas, cooperatives help strengthen local economies, encourage collaboration, and create sustainable solutions that meet the needs of their members.
The UN recognizes that cooperatives support fair economic growth by giving people equal access to resources and opportunities. This helps lessen inequalities in the communities where cooperatives operate by giving all people a voice and share in the benefits. This unique approach enables all individuals from diverse backgrounds to contribute to their communities, which in turn benefits both the individuals and the society as a whole.
Many cooperatives are also climate-friendly, actively working to reduce their environmental impact. They prioritize sustainable practices in their business operations, such as using renewable energy and reducing waste.
Photo Courtesy of Equal Exchange
Agricultural cooperatives support local food systems, which ensures that communities have access to fresh nutritious food. By focusing on local production, these cooperatives create more resilient food supply chains, empowering local farmers, and providing communities with healthier food options.
At the Belfast Community Co-op, we believe that when you shop at a co-op, you are buying into a better world: a democratic food system that makes the planet a more equitable and sustainable place for all. The Belfast Community Co-op is here for you so that everyone will always have reliable, safe access to good local food.
The UN Secretary-General’s Report on Cooperatives in Social Development urges governments to support cooperatives and recognize them as sustainable organizations that create jobs, reduce hunger, and promote financial inclusion. Additionally, the report highlights the need for laws and regulations that align with cooperative principles to create a supportive environment so that these organizations may thrive and contribute to a more equitable and sustainable future for all. To find out how you can support Co-ops, visit: https://2025.coop/
Everyone is welcome to shop at the Co-op; it is our mission and our pleasure to bring locally-sourced, reasonably priced, organic and natural products to all.
Owned by you. Food for all.
