Climate change as a global challenge
Climate change is an issue which affects all workers and one which trade unions have a duty to take an active part in tackling the problem.
The ETUC’s social priorities include maintaining a healthy environment for working people and their families. This issue is no longer the domain of environmental experts. It affects citizens’ rights and democracy, and must be addressed also at the level of social dialogue and collective bargaining.
What is the problem?
Global warming and climate change refer to an increase in average global temperatures. Natural events and human activities are believed to be contributing to an increase in average global temperatures. This is caused primarily by increases in “greenhouse” gases such as Carbon Dioxide (CO2).
If this global warming persists, it will impact water availability, agricultural productivity and biodiversity, and lead to a growing number of extreme weather events such as hurricanes, forest fires and floods.
What is our objective?
- International level
At the International level we need a legally binding and ambitious framework agreement that include provisions for a “Just transition of the workforce, and the creation of decent work and quality jobs”.
Multilateral UN system (UNFCCC) in line with the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) recommendations should be the main channel for creating such a framework. The ETUC actively takes part in this process. Link towards the International page with all ETUC documents
- European level
Building a low carbon and climate resilient economy within Europe, based on an appropriate energy mix, is one of the key objectives of EU policies. The ETUC is calling for a European Just Transition Roadmap to accompany the EU’s strategies and goals regarding climate change and energy..
The ETUC strives to contribute to this objective. Link towards the European page with all ETUC documents