PRF calls for recognition of Waste Pickers' contributions

As the world commemorates International Waste Pickers' Day, the Pacific Recycling Foundation reaffirms its commitment to the upliftment and empowerment of those involved in waste picking, now called the Collection Pillars of Recycling, who tirelessly contribute to environmental sustainability and community well-being.

PRF Founder Amitesh Deo says on this day, they call upon governments, organisations, and communities to join them in their mission to provide structured support, empowerment, and recognition to those involved in waste picking worldwide.

Deo says they are dedicated to amplifying the voices of those involved in waste picking and advocating for their rights to dignified work and livelihoods.

Deo and Collection Pillar of Recycling, Salanieta Rogowalesi, PRF's delegation is currently in Kathmandu, Nepal, for the Inaugural International Waste Pickers Alliance Asia Pacific Coordination Meeting.

He says this historic participation not only signifies a milestone achievement for PRF but also marks Fiji's inaugural representation and engagement in discussions within the International Alliance of Waste Pickers in the Asia Pacific Region.

The PRF founder says despite their essential role in waste management and recycling, these groups remain marginalised and vulnerable, confronting stigma and discrimination daily.

He further says the primary objective of the Asia Pacific Regional Coordination Meeting is to enhance the collective impact and influence of the International Alliance of Waste Pickers in the region.

Deo further says the Pacific Recycling Foundation, with the support of its partners, took a significant step in 2022 to change this perception by renaming waste pickers as the Collection Pillars of Recycling, marking a milestone for Fiji and aiming to end the stigma attached to their work.

He says the key themes to be advocated include just transition, zero waste, reuse, livelihood, and social protection, with a special focus on the joint commemoration of International Waste Pickers Day. He adds amidst the neglect, there stand approximately 20 million waste pickers worldwide, serving as the backbone of recycling for decades, and PRF has interviewed over 1,000 individuals involved in informal waste picking and will soon reveal findings through a report.

Deo says their tireless efforts annually divert millions of tonnes of carbon dioxide from landfills and dumpsites but instead of being celebrated as environmental heroes, they are often overlooked and seen as mere vagrants.

He is calling on everyone to together, build a world where those involved in waste picking are no longer invisible but celebrated as environmental heroes and agents of change.