Policy guidelines for the promotion of decent work in recycling

This document provides guidance on policy measures and actions that governments, employers, workers and other actors can implement to promote decent work opportunities and to address challenges in recycling operations in all sectors where recycling takes place.

Advancing social justice, including the protection and realization of fundamental principles and rights at work, is key to ensuring that workers involved in recycling activities and operations can pursue their livelihoods and carry out their jobs in conditions of equality, freedom, safety, health, social security and dignity. It is also key to realizing the significant contribution that recycling can make to job creation, economic growth, a more inclusive circular economy and sustainable development.

The guidelines draw on the principles contained in ILO Declarations, Conventions, Recommendations and Protocols; the resolutions and conclusions adopted by the International Labour Conference, notably the conclusions concerning a just transition towards environmentally sustainable economies and societies for all; and the outcomes of relevant ILO sectoral meetings (see appendix).