The International Labour Organisation (ILO) office in Türkiye has teamed up with the EkoDoku Women Sustainable Living Cooperative to launch a new initiative aimed at promoting eco-friendly textiles and raising awareness about the negative impacts of fast fashion in the country. EkoDoku, which operates branches in Ankara and Iskenderun, focuses on circularity and sustainability within the textile industry.
With technical and financial support from the ILO, EkoDoku will create a new collection using nature-based fabrics and techniques. This initiative, funded by the US government, aims not only to advance sustainable textile practices but also to create formal job opportunities, according to an ILO statement.
The initiative kicked off on August 3 with an ‘Eco Dyeing and Printing Workshop,’ where cooperative members received training in natural dyeing techniques using plant-based pigments. Participants also learned traditional methods such as woodblock printing, natural patterning, and batik dyeing on linen and hemp fabrics.
The ILO is expanding the use of Nature-Based Solutions (NbS) at EkoDoku to address issues related to decent work, including informal employment, low wages, and low productivity. This pilot project aims to stimulate green job creation and promote inclusiveness for all, including Syrians under temporary protection and local communities.
The ‘HarmonyUnity’ collection, developed with ILO’s support, emphasizes sustainable living and aims to highlight global harmony and unity.
Nature-based solutions are vital for creating green jobs that foster sustainable, resilient, and inclusive employment opportunities. According to the ILO’s Decent Work in Nature-Based Solutions 2022 Report, nearly 75 million people are currently employed in NbS, and efforts in mitigation, biodiversity, and land restoration could generate an additional 20 million jobs.
The ILO also recognizes cooperatives as crucial pathways to formalizing employment in the textile sector, especially for women, ensuring decent work, income, and access to essential services.
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