#CitiesOnTheFrontline

Informal waste workers are often at the frontline of urban waste collection and recycling, yet their work is frequently undervalued and inadequately supported. Operating under challenging conditions with limited resources or recognition, these workers play a vital role in keeping cities clean and enabling circular economy practices. Strengthening their role can bring significant social, economic, and environmental benefits. 

This Cities on the Frontline session explored the critical role of informal waste workers in urban waste management and how cities can recognize, support, and integrate their contributions. It provided a platform to discuss challenges and opportunities in informal waste streams and strategies for inclusive city-level interventions. 

The session also highlights tools such as the Harmonized Responsible Sourcing Framework developed by The Circulate Initiative, which guides cities on ethical and responsible waste practices.

Listen in to gain insights into practical approaches for formalizing and recognizing informal waste workers, supporting transparency, accountability, and sustainability in municipal waste management systems.

Chapters:
0:00 - Introduction to the session
6:21 - Harmonized Responsible Sourcing Framework | Madhu Narayan, The Circulate Initiative
20:15 - Salvador's RODA project | Henrique Mascarenhas, SOLOS
33:50 - Mumbai's Dry Waste Centres | Nitin Parab, Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), Mumbai
45:29 - Q&A with panelists

#Informalwork #waste #wastemanagement #recycle