Topic portal

Circular economy

The circular economy is vital for achieving environmental as well as socio-economic goals. Unlike the wasteful “take-make-dispose” model of the linear economy, circularity fosters sustainable production and consumption while creating millions of jobs.

The first Global Circular Economy Employment baseline report by the ILO, Circle Economy and the World Bank Group, estimates that at least between 121–142 million people work in fully or partially circular activities. These range from craftspeople repairing and upcycling products to waste pickers and enterprises adopting circular business models.

However, many workers in informal segments face hazardous conditions and lack basic rights. To ensure decent work and social just for all, the ILO works with tripartite constituents and key partners to promote a just, job-rich transition to the circular economy.

Guidelines for a just transition towards environmentally sustainable economies and societies for all

ILO International Training Centre: Course on promoting Green Jobs in the Circular Economy (27 April - 16 May 2026)
ILO International Training Centre: Masterclass on Rethinking Sustainability: Circular Economy Insights from Qatar and Beyond (self-guided course)

Jobs in the Circular Economy Initiative

Joint initiative of Circle Economy, the ILO and the World Bank Group’s, aiming to create evidence and tools to unlock the potential of the circular economy for promoting innovation, sustainable enterprise, and ensuring decent work for all.

Find out more about the initiative

Recycling

Recycling is key to the circular economy, employing at least 6.9 million workers worldwide, many in the informal sector. Expanding recycling could create 7 million more jobs by 2030, but current roles often lack decent work standards.

Visit the recycling website