ILO and EkoDoku Cooperative Promote Sustainable Textiles and Green Jobs in Türkiye

The ILO is further expanding the use of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) at EkoDoku to address issues related to decent work, such as informal employment, low wages, and low productivity.

The International Labour Organization (ILO) Office for Türkiye is spearheading efforts to advance formal and inclusive sustainable textile practices within Türkiye's burgeoning green economy. Collaborating with EkoDoku Women Sustainable Living Cooperative, the ILO has launched initiatives to promote eco-friendly textiles and raise awareness about the harmful effects of fast fashion.

With technical and financial support from the ILO, EkoDoku is set to produce a new collection using nature-based fabrics and techniques. This initiative not only supports the growth of sustainable textiles but also aims to create formal job opportunities, contributing to the sector's formalization.

On August 3rd, the partnership kicked off with an "Eco Dyeing and Printing Workshop." Led by Textile Design Consultant Ms. Gökçe Coşkun, the workshop provided cooperative members with hands-on training in natural dyeing techniques using plant-based pigments. Participants also learned traditional methods like woodblock printing, natural patterning, and batik dyeing on linen and hemp fabrics.

The ILO is further expanding the use 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 stimulate green job creation and inclusivity, benefiting Syrians under Temporary Protection, International Protection Applicants and Status Holders, and local host communities.

Esra Üzel Yüncüler, founding member and chairperson of EkoDoku, highlighted the cooperative's dedication to sustainable textiles, decent jobs, and increasing women's employment. The "HarmonyUnity" collection, supported by the ILO, seeks to promote sustainable living by emphasizing global harmony and unity.

Nature-based solutions play a crucial role in creating green jobs, fostering sustainable, resilient, and inclusive employment opportunities that support environmental protection, economic diversification, and social equity. According to the Decent Work in Nature-based Solutions 2022 Report, nearly 75 million people are currently employed in NbS, with the potential to create an additional 20 million jobs through initiatives in mitigation, biodiversity, and land restoration.

The ILO Office for Türkiye recognizes cooperatives as essential pathways to formalization. By providing decent employment and income, and improving access to essential services and social protection, cooperatives offer a critical route for transitioning textile workers, many of whom are women, into the formal economy.