Abstract | This chapter is about inequalities faced by workers in the construction sector across the globe and how these need to be addressed to combat climate change. Globally 40% of emissions are due to the construction and operation of buildings, whilst the sector is also set to gain more employment through the transition to a green economy than any other. It is however beset with inequalities in terms of different groups, including women, migrants and those from ethnic minorities, and of disparities in employment, working conditions and vocational education and training (VET). As a result, much of the sector is at odds with the International Labour Office’s (ILO) blueprint for quality work, the Decent Work Agenda. The chapter highlights key inequalities faced by many working in construction, focusing on selected countries in the Global North and the Global South. It concludes that addressing climate change necessitates also addressing these inequalities if a just transition is to take place. |
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