Waste pickers in developing countries remain the most vulnerable and overlooked group in the global recycling value chain. Despite their key role in supporting a circular economy, the highly fragmented nature of informal recycling workforces poses a challenge related to due diligence, traceability and meeting compliance standards.
Recognising this, this project aims to integrate informal waste pickers into formal recycling markets based on a collective action model. Focusing on Colombia’s recycled aluminium value chain, it will identify challenges, opportunities and pathways for market formalisation. By bringing together waste pickers, SMEs, local authorities, and businesses, the project seeks to foster sustainable livelihoods, create more economic opportunities, and promote broader circularity goals that benefit the entire sector.
