In the bustling cities of Brazil, a force of unsung heroes silently toil day and night, braving all weather conditions to collect, sort, and sell recyclable materials. They are the waste pickers, an army of around 800,000 individuals who play an indispensable role in waste management, recycling over 90% of Brazil’s recyclable waste each year. Through powerful shots Rio de Janeiro-born photographer Marcos Ramos shines a light on these resilient individuals and their crucial impact on Brazil’s circular economy and environmental preservation.
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Waste pickers play a crucial role in waste management in Brazil, significantly contributing to recycling and urban cleanliness. According to data from the Institute for Applied Economic Research (IPEA), there are currently about 800,000 waste pickers in the country, many of whom work autonomously and in precarious conditions. These professionals remove approximately 90% of all recyclable material collected in Brazil, which amounts to more than 800,000 tons of waste per year. They work tirelessly, morning, afternoon, and night, through rain or shine, in both cold and hot weather.
Often seen as informal workers, waste pickers are responsible for collecting, sorting, and selling recyclable materials such as paper, plastic, glass, and metal. This activity not only generates income for thousands of families but also plays a crucial role in environmental preservation. According to the Brazilian Association of Public Cleaning and Special Waste Companies (ABRELPE), recycling prevents tons of waste from being improperly discarded, reducing pollution and the need for new landfills.
Beyond the environmental impact, the work of waste pickers has significant social dimensions. Many of these individuals come from vulnerable communities and find a source of livelihood and dignity in collecting recyclable materials. Various organizations, such as the National Movement of Waste Pickers (MNCR), advocate for the formalization and better working conditions for these professionals, aiming to secure labor rights and access to social benefits.
The importance of waste pickers was particularly highlighted during the Covid-19 pandemic. The interruption of recycling activities in several cities demonstrated how much society depends on these workers to keep streets clean and minimize environmental impacts. Many waste pickers continued to work despite health risks, showing their resilience and commitment to sustainability.
It is crucial that public policies recognize and value the work of waste pickers, integrating them formally into the waste management system and providing adequate conditions for their functions. Investing in training and infrastructure for waste pickers is not only a matter of social justice but also an effective strategy to improve recycling efficiency and promote sustainable development in Brazil.
For this reality to change, it is essential to raise society’s awareness and governmental support, ensuring that these invisible protagonists receive the recognition and support needed to continue playing their vital role in the circular economy and environmental protection.
Featured image: Marcos Ramos.
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