How social partners can ensure a Just Transition to a circular economy

The circular economy changes industries and labour markets. This briefing lays out six ways social partners, such as trade and labour unions, can ensure a Just Transition to the circular economy.

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6 steps towards a Just Transition

Being in the centre of workers, businesses and governments, social partners are well positioned to:

1. Translate circular challenges into opportunities
2. Create access to training and upskilling opportunities
3. Act as a redistributive power
4. Limit trade-offs between social and environmental targets
5. Connect stakeholders through social dialogue
6. Promote Industry 5.0

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In addition, the briefing provides an overview of key considerations social partners should take into account when designing interventions and steering social dialogue. These range from skills to legal barriers.

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Circular Jobs Initiative

Circle Economy is actively strengthening evidence on the shift in and demand for jobs and skills in a circular economy. Our Circular Jobs Initiative defines and identifies circular jobs, analyses the environment needed to create them and maximise their societal benefits, and examines how best technology can play a positive part. We work with employers, workers, governments, multilateral organisations, education institutions and research organisations.

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