Waste pickers — ensuring dignity and a sustainable way of life for the unsung, unseen heroes of recycling
According to Mothoemte, who has been a waste picker for about a decade, they moved on to the land as it was unoccupied. It is a dumping ground within the neighbourhood and is located near recycling centres and sources where they can collect recyclables. Currently, the waste pickers at the site have to push their trolleys long distances. But the trolleys are not big enough for all the recyclables and they often have to make many trips to fill one 300kg bag, which translates into an income of about R1,500 to R2,000 a month.“An informal camp has existed close to our head office in Parktown for some time.
It will help with on-site baling of recyclables by supplying a solar-powered baling machine to increase the reclaimers’ income by 30% and assist the reclaimers in getting the best value for their recyclables through off-take agreements and fully documenting the type, volume and value of recycling operations. In addition, the partnership will provide education or skills development beyond recycling.