The government should ensure any eventual UN agreement on sustainable development takes note of social and environmental justice principles, incorporates concrete commitments and fully involves civil society, the General Workers’ Union said.

The proposals form the backbone of the International Trade Union Confederation’s position in the run-up to the UN Conference on Sustainable Development, due to be held in Rio de Janeiro next June.

In a letter to Resources Minister George Pullicino, GWU secretary general Tony Zarb calls for “an alternative growth model that works for people and the environment”.

He insists sustainable development must be underpinned by social equity, strong financial regulation and the prioritisation of renewable energy sources.

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