As South Africa continues to roll out compulsory Extended Producer Responsibility schemes in accordance with refined EPR regulations, the critical role of waste pickers cannot be overlooked or discarded. “Waste pickers are key actors in the waste management ecosystem whose contribution should be fully supported by EPR processes,” she said. The greatest contribution of waste pickers is that their activities divert recyclable products away from landfills where they would otherwise be lost. Waste pickers need more protection from authoritiesAccording to the International Alliance of Waste Pickers, more than 22 million people around the world earn a living as informal waste workers. “South Africa needs to ensure its waste pickers are protected through formal, transparent programmes that fully integrate their services and provide fair compensation and incentives,” said Schröder.

Source: The North Africa Journal June 19, 2023 12:34 UTC