How to INCLUDE us in the Green Economy of Makhanda

This is a step-by-step guide on how any stakeholder in Makhanda's solid waste management can meaningfully include us in their plans to improve the city's waste management systems.

To begin with, formal recognition is key. Waste pickers who sort trash on city streets on collection days as well as those who work from the municipal landfill, should be acknowledged as legitimate workers who provide a vital environmental service. The municipality or organisations can support our ongoing efforts to register waste pickers and map out where and how others operate. This would help in planning support services and policies that include them in official waste management strategies. Recognition also gives waste pickers visibility, respect, and a voice in decision-making processes related to the green economy.

Next, the city should support the formation of cooperatives or associations of waste pickers, such as this one. Working with groups like ours can also make it easier for municipalities and businesses to work with waste pickers through contracts or partnerships. This model has been successful in other South African cities like Johannesburg and Tshwane, where organised waste pickers are part of official recycling programmes.

Another critical step is to provide training and resources. Many waste pickers work in dangerous conditions and have limited knowledge of health, safety, and sorting techniques. Training programs can focus on improving sorting efficiency, business skills, occupational health and safety, and environmental awareness. The municipality or NGOs could also supply protective gear, trolleys, and storage space to make their work safer and more effective while we work on ensuring sustainable sources for gear.

In addition, infrastructure and policy support are needed. The city can set up decentralised recycling drop-off points or materials recovery facilities (MRFs) where waste pickers can sort and sell recyclables more efficiently. Policies that guarantee waste pickers access to recyclables at landfills or curbside collections, and fair prices for materials, would help stabilise their income. These steps not only improve livelihoods but also strengthen Makhanda’s waste management system.

Finally, it’s essential to include waste pickers in public awareness and education campaigns. When the community understands and values the work of waste pickers, they are more likely to cooperate — by separating waste at source, respecting waste pickers’ rights, and supporting recycling efforts. Public education also helps fight stigma and encourages residents to see waste pickers as environmental allies rather than nuisances.

By following these steps, Makhanda can build a greener and more inclusive economy — one that supports those already doing the hard work of cleaning up the environment, and ensures that the green transition works for everyone.

TL;DR

Integrating waste picking in 4 steps

• Create a pathway for formal registration of waste pickers

• Help us to strengthen our organisation

• Facilitate capacity-building and resources for waste pickers

• Include waste pickers in advocacy and recycling campaigns