From rubble to resource: Guidance for people-centred circular rubble management and reconstruction 

This publication is the result of a collaboration led by the United Nations Office for Project Services (UNOPS) with the UN Environment Programme, the UN Human Settlements Programme, the International Labour Organization, Habitat for Humanity, the World Wildlife Fund, the RMIT University, and the KTH Royal Institute of Technology. It provides practical guidance for policymakers, practitioners and development partners on designing and implementing circular approaches to rubble management and reconstruction. It shows how debris can be transformed into a resource for rebuilding communities in fragile, conflict-affected and disaster contexts, contributing to more sustainable and inclusive recovery.

Drawing on the ILO’s expertise in employment-intensive investments, the guidelines emphasize the importance of integrating decent work principles into rubble recycling and reconstruction activities. They outline how labour-based approaches can generate jobs, promote skills development and formalization, and ensure safe and decent working conditions while improving the quality and sustainability of infrastructure outcomes.

While circular rubble management and reconstruction offer strong potential for job creation through labour‑based activities, these sectors are often characterized by high levels of informality and significant decent work deficits. Embedding decent work principles through employment-intensive approaches not only safeguards workers’ well‑being but also improves productivity, quality and sustainability, contributing to more inclusive and resilient recovery.

Mito Tsukamoto, Chief, EMPINVEST Branch