The ETUC is convinced that transition to a less carbon-intensive economy is an unique opportunity to effect social progress and create more and better jobs. The 2004 Environmental Policy Review shows that the eco-industry is already employing more than 2 million people in Europe and continues to grow with around 5% per year.

The European Union’s credibility now depends on the actual implementation of climate protection measures. This will require the use of all available instruments, in particular regulations, fiscal instruments, investment and R&D programmes and appropriate regulation of energy markets.

But that is not enough. If the Kyoto objectives are to be implemented successfully, social and employment issues should be fully integrated in all aspects of the European Union’s climate change strategy, itself taken into account in the Lisbon Strategy. All parties, particularly workers and unions, must be involved. Agreements between employers and employees can bring real and sustained environmental benefits.

Not only distribution of income, but also working conditions and individuals’ education and training needs will be affected by climate change measures. This implies that “employment transition programmes” for workers in sectors and regions affected should be effectively integrated into economic policy.