Trade unions want both an effective UN climate pact and preservation of jobs in a shift to a green economy, a leader of a global labour group has said.
More jobs could be created than are lost if governments are serious about promoting a switch from fossil fuels to a low-carbon economy, said Guy Ryder, general secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC).
The Brussels-based ITUC, which represents 168 million workers in 155 countries, wants the new UN pact due to be agreed in Copenhagen in December to ensure a “just transition” for workers to a greener economy.
Ryder said many UN studies showed that a low-carbon future could be achieved by “policies that would increase the quantity and quality of employment.”
He added: “There is going to have to be massive social protection and investment in adjustment” when making a global shift from fossil fuels towards industries such as wind or solar power.
Global unions call for green jobs
Trade unions want both an effective UN climate pact and preservation of jobs in a shift to a green economy, a leader of a global labour group has said.
More jobs could be created than are lost if governments are serious about promoting a switch from fossil fuels to a low-carbon economy, said Guy Ryder, general secretary of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC).
The Brussels-based ITUC, which represents 168 million workers in 155 countries, wants the new UN pact due to be agreed in Copenhagen in December to ensure a “just transition” for workers to a greener economy.
Ryder said many UN studies showed that a low-carbon future could be achieved by “policies that would increase the quantity and quality of employment.”
He added: “There is going to have to be massive social protection and investment in adjustment” when making a global shift from fossil fuels towards industries such as wind or solar power.