In the ongoing global dialogue on climate change, the role of Brazil’s waste pickers emerges as critical yet overlooked. These individuals, integral to the country’s recycling efforts, currently handle 90% of the recyclable materials destined for industry, embodying the spirit of a circular economy.
Despite their significance, these workers face severe challenges: informality, precarious conditions, and the lack of basic labor rights. The National Solid Waste Policy, initiated in 2010, aims to resolve these issues but grapples with practical implementation due to structural and economic hurdles, highlighting a gap between policy and practice.
Recent reforms, while partly addressing these concerns, underscore the need for a focused approach to support Brazil’s waste pickers. Strengthening cooperative networks and ensuring access to financial resources are crucial. As climate strategies evolve, integrating waste picker contributions remains key to fostering a fair and sustainable green economy.