UNISON gets behind international treaty to end fossil fuel use
The UK’s largest trade union represents 1.3million public service workers, and is calling on the Government to push for a new global agreement.
The Fossil Fuel Non-Proliferation Treaty Initiative is a cooperative drive to stop new gas and oil development and phase out entirely existing production in line with the agreed global warming limit of 1.5C above pre-industrial levels.
Although triggering a seismic change in the make up of industries, sectors and economies, the campaign also prioritises equity and prioritises support for workers and communities currently dependent on high polluting energy sources.
‘UNISON’s support is a game-changer. It shows the UK’s largest union is firmly behind the campaign to push for the government to commit to a national energy transition. A just and financed shift from fossil fuels to clean energy is a necessity,’ said Christina McAena, General Secretary of UNISON.
‘This endorsement emphasises the call for a just transition to protect workers while shifting away from oil and gas in an equitable and fair manner,’ she continued. ‘If the UK government were to endorse the principle of a fossil fuel treaty, it would join a group of 13 countries already calling for a fair and funded transition to clean energy.’
UNISON is following in the footsteps of Public Services International [PSI], the sector’s global union network accounting for 700 trade unions representing 30million workers in 154 countries, which has already pledged support for the Treaty.
‘We can rapidly phase out fossil fuels and enjoy decent work and sustainable livelihoods – but only if we shift to publicly owned and managed renewable energy systems and an economy designed for people, not profits,’ said Kate Lappin, Regional Secretary for PSI, Asia Pacific.
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Image: UNISON