Whilst certain nations of the planet are blessed with abundant natural resources, often this wealth is a curse which brings with it conflict and suffering. This reinforces the call by prominent global NGO’s for the elimination of the fossil fuel industry. But through their actions ICEM trade unions do ensure that our industries are industries for peace, respects people and promote sustainable development so that the benefits are shared by all.

The industries in which the ICEM organises span the social, economic and environmental dimensions of sustainability. In its role as defender of the interests of those who work in these industries, the ICEM represents the communities where workers work and live.

The ICEM, therefore, has an obligation to continuously define, promote and refine the concept of sustainable development, and the notion of sustainable communities from a labour perspective. Therefore, the principles underlining our Social Energy Policy remain relevant in the future development of the industry globally. But workers face a huge task and formidable foes in pursuance of this policy.