Presenter: To be informed, you can visit websites such as Fair Trade USA, thirdworldtraveler.com and tenthousandvillages.com, which list and sell products from clothing companies who have worked to meet fair trade conditions. This list grows monthly, and by supporting these companies through your purchases, you can become a socially conscious consumer.

Additionally, ask questions of other retailers. Whether you shop online or at local retail shops, ask direct questions before purchasing clothes. For example, where are your products made? Do you have proof of fair trade practices? Where can I find this information before I make my purchase?

Such questions define the socially conscious consumer, and they ensure that you will not be contributing to unsafe and unfair labor practices. Although several factors contributed to the tragedy in Bangladesh, there's one way we can help prevent future disasters-- become a socially conscious consumer. By being informed and asking questions, you too can make a difference in the lives of workers around the world.