About International Alliance of Waste Pickers (IAWP):

The International Alliance of Waste Pickers (IAWP) is a global union representing waste picker organizations in over 34 countries, with more than 460,000 workers affiliated.

key aspects:

Mission: Advocate for the rights and improve the working conditions of waste pickers worldwide.

Role:

• Promotes the formalization of waste picking as a recognized profession.
• Supports waste picker organizations in their efforts to gain better access to waste collection and recycling infrastructure.
• Lobbies for policies that recognize waste pickers as environmental service providers.
• Provides training and resources to help waste picker organizations improve their efficiency and livelihoods.
• Challenges:
  • Waste pickers often face difficult working conditions, including health risks, lack of social security, and harassment from authorities.
  • They may struggle to gain access to valuable materials due to competition from formal waste collection systems.
  • Unfavorable government policies and lack of recognition can hinder their ability to earn a decent living.