ILO promotes green jobs through nature-based solutions in Turkey

© Ebru Okutan

ANKARA (ILO News) – The International Labour Organization (ILO) Office for Turkey is driving the advancement of formal and inclusive sustainable textile practices within Turkey’s green economy. In collaboration with the EkoDoku Women Sustainable Living Cooperative, the ILO is launching initiatives to promote environmentally friendly textiles and raise awareness of the harmful effects of fast fashion.

Following on-site visits by ILO officials and with technical and financial support from the ILO, EkoDoku will produce a collection using nature-based fabrics and techniques. This initiative not only promotes sustainable textiles but also aims to create formal jobs, thus contributing to the formalization of the sector.

On August 3, the initiative was launched with an “Economic Dyeing and Printing Workshop”. Led by Ms. Gökçe Coşkun, a textile design consultant, the workshop provided the cooperative members with hands-on training in natural dyeing techniques using pigments from various plants. Participants also learned woodblock printing, natural patterns and batik dyeing on linen and hemp fabrics.

© Ebru Okutan

The ILO is scaling up the implementation of nature-based solutions (NbS) at EkoDoku to address issues related to decent work, such as informal employment, low wages and low productivity. The pilot project at EkoDoku aims to promote green job creation and inclusion for all, including Syrians under temporary protection, applicants and holders of international protection, and host communities.

Esra Üzel Yüncüler, founding member and chair of EkoDoku, emphasized the cooperative’s commitment to sustainable textiles, decent jobs and increased female employment. The ILO-supported collection “HarmonyUnity” aims to promote sustainable living by emphasizing global harmony and unity.

© Ebru Okutan

Nature-based solutions are essential for green jobs and promote sustainable, resilient and inclusive employment opportunities that support environmental protection, economic diversification and social justice. According to the Decent Work in Nature-based Solutions 2022 report, nearly 75 million people are currently employed in nature-based solutions and an estimated 20 million additional jobs could be created by achieving mitigation, biodiversity and land restoration targets.

The ILO Office for Turkey recognizes cooperatives as an important pathway to formalization and addresses the challenges faced by garment workers, many of whom are women. By ensuring decent employment and income and improving access to basic services and social protection, cooperatives provide an important pathway for workers’ transition into the formal economy.

About the EkoDoku cooperative

EkoDoku, a women-led social enterprise aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals, promotes circular economy and sustainability in the textile industry. With offices in Ankara and Iskenderun, the cooperative focuses on waste management and upcycling, transforming discarded cotton fabrics into practical products. EkoDoku also promotes cruelty-free silk production and advocates responsible production and consumption.

This initiative, including workshops and support activities, is funded by the U.S. government.