THE Pacific Recycling Foundation (PRF) has called for greater dignity and structured support for informal waste collectors, who are known as ‘collection pillars of recycling’
Speaking during PRF’s Roadside Campaign along Kings Highway to mark World Environment Day and World Oceans Day, PRF founder Amitesh Deo said individuals involved in informal waste collection often faced stigma and disrespect though they play a vital role in the country’s recycling ecosystem.
“There’s a lot of stigma attached to their work,” Mr Deo said.
“They get called names, they get called different things, and so we are advocating for a behaviour change around those people too, because it’s a part of a trade.
“Globally, 60 per cent of recyclables are collected by individuals in informal collection spaces.”
He said recycling was not only about environmental impact but also about social justice and recognising informal collectors as legitimate contributors to the recycling chain.
“The idea is that they need dignity and respect as well for the work they do,” he added.
“Providing them structured support rather than providing them handouts, giving them dignity through washroom facilities, access to water and basic things like that.”
