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Consumer Power
Consumer Power
Consumers demand end to child factory labour in India, Nepal and Pakistan
Young People's Press
There is a shortage of tables and chairs, the paint on the blackboards is peeling, and chalk is scarce at the school nestled in the emerald foothills of the Himalayan mountain range in Nepal.
But the children are exuberant. Laughter, songs and smiles radiate throughout the three-story concrete building, home to 50 students ranging in age from 9 to 15.
Until recently, many of these young people worked as slave labourers to produce the hand-knotted rugs that lie on the floors of many European and North American homes. However, consumer action and media attention have increased the demand for goods produced under more humane working conditions. As a result, many carpet factories are becoming licensed by Rugmark International, and the former child workers are going to school for 
the first time.
`I used to weave carpets from 5 o'clock in the morning until 10 o'clock at night. The next morning I had to wake up and follow the same old routine.'
- Rescued 10-year-old rug worker Kanta
In collaboration with villagers, consumers and grass-roots organizations, Rugmark is working with the carpet industry to end child labour in India, Nepal and Pakistan. Carpet manufacturers who agree to adhere to Rugmark's standards earn the Rugmark label, which certifies that the rug has been made without the use of child labour.
Through regular and surprise inspections of carpet factories, each individual loom is checked for underage workers. If inspectors find child workers who want to attend the Rugmark school, the parents are asked for permission and the job is offered to another family member.
At factories licensed by Rugmark, employees are paid at least the local minimum wage. A portion of the company's profits goes directly into rehabilitation programs for the displaced child workers. These programs provide education and vocational training.
Source: 
So the next time you buy a carpet look out for this logo to make sure you don´t support child labour with your pruchase:
~peace~