Unions You Wouldn't Expect Bargaining for Climate Action

Last year was the hottest in recorded history, and this summer, much of the United States has already experienced record-shattering heat waves. That leaves millions of workers risking their health and possibly even their lives while on the job. And the danger is not limited to those who work outdoors. Warehouses, restaurants, and other indoor spaces are heating up. Most jobs lack heat protection from the federal or state government, but the same groups that brought us the 40-hour work week, child labor laws, and the weekend are now fighting for new worker protections.

Unions across the country — from Texas UPS drivers to the Chicago Teachers Union — are negotiating to keep their workers protected from the effects of the climate crisis. Some are even going one step further and negotiating for their employers to cut the  carbon pollution that’s adding to global heating. How has the climate crisis spurred union action?

Guests: 

Terri Gerstein, Director, The Labor Initiative, Robert F. Wagner Graduate School of Public Service, New York University

Stacy Davis Gates, President, Chicago Teachers Union

Anita Seth, President, UNITE HERE Local 8

Emily Minkus, Member, UNITE HERE Local 8

🎟️ We've added yet another event to our stacked fall calendar. This program will feature Dr. Ayana Elizabeth Johnson in conversation with Earthjustice President Abigail Dillen and Co-Host Greg Dalton. Tickets are on sale now.

Support Climate One by going ad-free! By subscribing to Climate One on Patreon, you’ll receive exclusive access to all future episodes free of ads, opportunities to connect with fellow Climate One listeners and access to the Climate One Discord. Sign up today for just $5/month.

For show notes and related links, visit our website.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices