In 2011, the Year of Biodiversity, WWF-CARPO and Estelle Levin Limited are trying to do something momentous: to begin a systematic and coordinated effort to curb the distressing environmental impact of small scale mining, and increasing its economic and social empowerment. For ethical jewelers and responsible jewelry buyers around the world, this is excellent news.

World Wildlife Fund has teamed up with Estelle Levin Ltd to support a systematic and coordinated effort to curb the distressing environmental impact of small scale mining, and increasing its economic and social empowerment. Read their announcement and PDF brochure here explaining the program ASM-PSEP, and what you can do to help. ~ Marc Choyt,

by Greg Valerio The advent of certified Fairtrade Fairmined gold this year cannot be underestimated. Despite its critics rightly pointing out that in the early stages FT Gold will be of minimal volumes as to have a negligible impact upon the jewellery trade miss the point. They think in terms of mere commodity value. To