Promoting Green Jobs: Decent Work in the Transition to Low-carbon, Green Economies

Abstract

This chapter explores the nexus between climate change and jobs. For the International Labour Organization (ilo), the relevance of climate change and low carbon development has not always been evident. Member states and social partners have long been reluctant to include the transition to low carbon economies in the programme of work and commit resources to it. But in recent years, environmental issues have become a policy priority among ilo member states and social partners. Why, then, is climate change now more relevant than ever for the world of work? What are the current and forecasted employment and social implications of climate change and the policies for adaptation and mitigation? How can the distributional impact of the move to a low-carbon society be better understood and managed? In this respect, how relevant is the concept of 'green jobs'? What policy approach has emerged within the ilo despite initial resistance and disagreement among constituents? Finally, what role could the ilo play in the future to promote social justice in the transition?.