October 18, 2017

Smart Prosperity Institute and the Mowat Centre have partnered with the intention of raising awareness and sparking discussion on decent work considerations in Ontario’s green transition. As the province moves toward a greener economy, policymakers must consider the implications of the resulting changes on employment opportunities and particularly opportunities for decent work. Our research aims to explore this impact, identify where workers might be vulnerable to disruption, and consider where policy intervention may be beneficial.

This report is the product of a literature review on both green transition and labour market trends in Ontario, an applied economic and technological model of Ontario’s cap and trade program, an analysis of policy relevant concepts, expert interviews and ongoing engagement of stakeholders within government, industry, labour and social justice circles. We hope that this research initiates a conversation between those advocating for decent work and those actively supporting a transition to the green economy, and increases the number of people working on the intersection of these issues.