The partnership promotes circular economy and inclusive green jobs.
The International Labour Organization (ILO), the governments of Zambia and Japan have launched a Japan-funded initiative to promote sustainable e-waste management while creating green employment opportunities for young people.
The Sustainable E-Waste Management for Youth Employment Project will support green enterprise development, expand employment opportunities for young people, women and persons with disabilities, strengthen skills development and promote circular economy practices as part of Zambia’s environmental and economic transformation.
According to the ILO and project partners, the initiative demonstrates how environmental sustainability and decent work can be advanced together. Employers, workers and government representatives said it will encourage entrepreneurship, strengthen collaboration, and help address Zambia’s growing e-waste challenge.
The project was launched in Lusaka as part of a partnership between the ILO and the governments of Zambia and Japan to support a greener and more resilient economy.
Why does it matter?
The initiative links environmental protection with employment creation by treating electronic waste as an economic resource rather than simply a disposal problem. Developing recycling and circular economy industries could help create new jobs while reducing the environmental and health impacts of poorly managed e-waste.
The project also reflects a broader international trend towards integrating climate, labour and development policies. By combining skills development, entrepreneurship and environmental sustainability, it illustrates how green transition programmes are increasingly being designed to deliver both economic and social benefits.
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