The impact of air pollution on the world of work for women and youth in East and Southeast Asia

The world of work is undergoing major structural transformation driven by demographic shifts, technological advancements, environmental and climate changes, and globalization. Countries in Asia have witnessed drastic increases in levels of air pollution, mainly because of rapidly developing economies. The effect of air pollution on the labour market is one of the least-known dimensions of this global challenge, including effects on current and future workforce, enterprises, and the quality of jobs for women and young people. Policymakers and practitioners from across governments and workers' and employers' organizations urgently need the knowledge and capacity to identify evidence-based policy options to minimize pollution impacts and boost the quantity and quality of employment, particularly as they seek pathways to an inclusive and sustainable recovery from COVID-19. This project seeks to identify policy solutions to mitigate negative impacts of air pollution on labour markets, particularly for women and youth, and to equip a range of stakeholders with knowledge and capacity to improve the quality and quantity of jobs for women and youth in Southeast Asia. It will identify knowledge gaps and solutions and enhance the capacity of a wide range of stakeholders to use evidence toward creating safe and healthy work environments for all in the transition to a low-carbon economy. Project outputs will include a state-of-the-evidence report with policy recommendations and a future research agenda, targeted policy briefs on solutions and innovations, podcasts and blogs to raise awareness, and a series of events to engage stakeholders.