The Role of Labour Unions in a Just Transition: Insights From the Workers

Abstract

Climate change will bring about changes in production and consumption patterns globally. Workers largely understand that a transformation of their industry and organisation is impending, but there is uncertainty about what this transition will look like. However, ensuring meaningful employment amidst mitigation to address climate change within organisations, can be aligned to address workers’ concerns. Enhancing existing livelihoods and income is fundamental to this transition. A strategy for changes that are fair and equitable for all stakeholders, or what is termed as “Just Transition,” is necessary to ensure that the future sustainable economy provides new and meaningful green jobs for workers. This study reports findings from a survey with 1,000 Singaporean and Permanent Resident workers in Singapore investigating their perceptions, attitudes, and priorities in a Just Transition. First, despite the ongoing push for sustainability, workers’ top concerns today and in the coming decade are the cost of living and livelihoods. Climate change is of less concern. Even among workers with strong pro-environmental attitudes, cost of living, livelihoods, and an ageing workforce were greater priorities. Second, workers are seeking certainty of what Just Transition looks like and reassurances that job opportunities will be available. These hint at existing uncertainties among workers about jobs, livelihood, and impending changes that will take place as part of this transition. Third, workers see a role played by unions in Just Transition and this role is multifaceted and builds on existing advocacy, negotiation, and partnership activities.