Waste, poverty and recycling

Environmental hazards as a consequence of mass consumption and waste disposal remain largely unconsidered in affluent societies. Resources embodied in waste are not recognized. In Latin America, Asia and Africa, in particular, an extensive informal sector is involved in the collecting and separating of recyclable materials. This widespread activity provides an insight into the resourcefulness of those involved in the collection, separation and commercialization of recyclables from the waste stream. Nevertheless, recyclers represent one of the most widely excluded, impoverished and disempowered segments of society. A new model of inclusive waste management, a radical approach capable of tackling poverty and contributing towards recovering environmental health should be established. Research results and community outreach experiences from the past five years have helped shape a definition for Participatory Sustainable Waste Management (PSWM), which has emerged as an alternative to conventional waste management. PSWM is defined as: ‘‘Solid waste recovery, reuse and recycling practices with organized and empowered recycling co-ops supported with public policies, embedded in solidarity economy and targeting social equity and environmental sustainability”. The concept combines social and environmental issues by addressing livelihood concerns, such as the generation of employment, increased income generation, improved occupational health, among others; and of course, the promotion of human development opportunities and environmental health in general. Inclusive waste management also endorses this definition and further underlines the co-management aspect of these innovative waste management approaches.