Social assessment of recycling systems – Peruvian case studies

Abstract

Several formalisation approaches of informal recycling have been implemented in developing countries, aiming at its integration into formal recycling systems. These strategies are often implemented through the initiative of local recyclers and non-government organisations. The aim is to tackle not only the poor economic situation but also common social problems of the informal recycling sector, such as social rejection, lack of education and inappropriate health and working conditions. Nevertheless, the expected positive social impacts are not precisely assessed or measured. This paper aims to develop a methodological approach based on the social life cycle assessment methodology for the assessment of recycling systems in developing countries with implemented formalisation measures. A field study in three Peruvian cities shows the feasibility of applying this methodology for assessing recycling systems. The case studies displayed negative performances regarding the indicators of discrimination, recognised employment relationships, and fulfilment of social benefits, physical working conditions and access to education. Regarding freedom of association, psychological working conditions and social acceptance, the city with formalisation of (formerly informal) recyclers obtained better evaluations whereas the city without formalisation was better evaluated in terms of working time and minimum and fair wages.

Integrated sustainable waste management in developing countries

“…Parallel papers in this issue examine vulnerability and resilience in community-based solid waste management, focusing on decentralised composting schemes in India (Zurbru¨gg and Rothenberger, 2013) and the role of the informal sector in both collection and recycling (Aparcana et al, 2013;Linzner and Lange, 2013).…”

Approaches to formalization of the informal waste sector into municipal solid waste management systems in low- and middle-income countries: Review of barriers and success factors

“…Inappropriate municipal solid waste management not only causes critical environmental impacts (climate change, environmental and human health damage, biodiversity loss, soil erosion) (Hoornweg and Bhada-Tata, 2012;Cleary, 2009), it also has negative economic and social impacts (Cointreau, 2006;Scheinberg et al 2010;Lohri et al, 2014). The challenge is greater in low-and middle-income countries, which share several similarities regarding their socioeconomic conditions, in particular in having waste management systems that operate to low standards (Wilson et al, 2006, cited by Aparcana et al 2012;Hoornweg and Bhada-Tata, 2012).…”