What is the actual role of trade unions in the field of sustainable transition?

The study on trade unions and sustainability represents the first comprehensive integrative review of 110 peer-reviewed articles published between 1997 and 2025. The analysis shows that interpretations of trade union strategies in the field of sustainability vary greatly depending on the theoretical framework of individual studies. 

Trade unions can be presented as:

• cautious defenders of the existing system
• actors caught up in the logic of growth
• or potential drivers of socio-ecological transformation.

This also determines how research evaluates their final performance. The so-called "work versus environment" dilemma is a complex issue, as it involves an intertwining of structural conditions, sectoral identities, political traditions, and internal organizational dynamics.

You can read more about the research conducted by Assist. Prof. Dr. Branko Bembič (Centre for Organizational and Human Resources Research UL FDV), Prof. Dr. Urša Golob Podnar, and Prof. Dr. Klement Podnar (both from the Centre for Marketing and Public Relations UL FDV) at the link.

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The article directly contributes to the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 8 (Decent work and economic growth) and SDG 13 (Climate action). 

Foto: Canva