Kenya National Waste Pickers Welfare Association

🌍 Addressing Plastic Pollution: The Impact on Waste Pickers in Kenya 🌍 As we reflect on the insights from the Africa Plastic Policy Factsheet by GAIA, it's crucial to recognize the significant challenges faced by waste pickers in our communities. These individuals play a vital role in managing waste and recycling, yet they are often the most affected by the consequences of plastic pollution. 💔 Why Waste Pickers Are Impacted: Health Risks: Waste pickers are exposed to hazardous materials, including toxic plastics and chemicals, which can lead to serious health issues. The lack of protective gear exacerbates these dangers. Economic Vulnerability: Many waste pickers rely on the income generated from collecting and sorting plastic waste. As plastic pollution increases, the market for recyclable materials can fluctuate, threatening their livelihoods. Environmental Degradation: The proliferation of plastic waste in our environment not only harms wildlife but also diminishes the quality of life for communities. Waste pickers, who often work in these polluted areas, face the brunt of this degradation. Social Stigma: Despite their essential contributions to waste management, waste pickers often face social stigma and lack recognition for their work. This marginalization can hinder their access to resources and support. 📢 Call to Action: Join us in advocating for policies that protect waste pickers and promote sustainable waste management practices. Together, we can push for the #PlasticsTreaty and work towards a cleaner, healthier environment for all. 🔗 Download and read the Africa Plastic Policy Factsheet here: https://lnkd.in/dH6JYCCQ #EndPlasticPollution #BreakFreeFromPlastic #WastePickers #Kenya #SustainableWasteManagement #INC5 #KeNaWPWA #CircularEconomy

🌍 It’s Time to Recognize the Role of Waste Pickers in Kenya’s EPR! In Kenya, Extended Producer Responsibility Organizations (EPROs) are essential for sustainable waste management. But there’s one key player often overlooked, our waste pickers. 👷🏾♀️💪🏾 Waste pickers are on the frontline of waste collection and recycling, keeping our neighborhoods clean and making significant contributions to environmental health. Yet, many EPROs barely recognize or support them in their operations. Without formal recognition, waste pickers work under tough conditions with minimal resources and protection. We need to change this. By involving waste pickers in EPR initiatives, EPROs can improve recycling rates, support economic empowerment, and help build a more inclusive circular economy. Let’s call on Kenyan EPROs and policymakers to: 1. Formally recognize waste pickers within the waste management system. 2. Provide resources, training, and fair compensation for their contributions. 3. Build partnerships that support the health, safety, and well-being of these essential workers. Together, we can push for a system that values all contributions, from corporate stakeholders to the waste pickers who keep our communities clean every day. Kenya’s path to sustainability is stronger when it includes everyone! 🌱♻️ #RecognizeWastePickers #EPRKenya #CircularEconomy #SustainableKenya #KeNaWPWA #WastePickers #ProducerREsponsibility #EPR #PRO

EMCA: Paving the Way for a Cleaner, Sustainable Kenya 🌍 Kenya’s Environmental Management and Coordination Act (EMCA) is a powerful legal tool dedicated to preserving our natural resources, controlling pollution, and fostering community involvement in environmental protection. By mandating the National Environment Management Authority (NEMA) to enforce these standards, EMCA emphasizes sustainable development, conservation, and a waste management framework that protects both the environment and the people working within it. Key Takeaways from EMCA and Their Importance to Waste Pickers ♻️ Sustainable Waste Management: EMCA promotes resource-efficient practices, from reducing waste generation to encouraging recycling and re-use, aligning closely with the critical work done by waste pickers. By diverting large amounts of waste from landfills, waste pickers are instrumental to this sustainable vision, playing a vital role in waste recovery. Pollution Control: EMCA enforces strict guidelines to reduce pollution in all forms—air, water, and land. This creates safer working environments for waste pickers who regularly face exposure to harmful waste. EMCA’s commitment to reducing pollution directly benefits waste pickers, pushing for cleaner workspaces and safer conditions. Community and Environmental Justice: EMCA’s emphasis on community engagement in environmental matters advocates for fair treatment and involvement of all stakeholders, including waste pickers. As a largely informal workforce, waste pickers often lack the recognition they deserve, and EMCA’s framework can support policies that safeguard their rights and their essential contributions to Kenya’s environmental goals. Toward a Greener, Inclusive Future with EMCA 🌱 The vision set by EMCA aligns with KeNaWPWA in building a more inclusive, environmentally-conscious Kenya. By embracing waste pickers as key contributors in this framework, we can advance sustainable waste practices, reduce pollution, and support equitable opportunities for those working in waste recovery. Let’s work together to ensure that EMCA’s mission creates meaningful change for a cleaner Kenya. #EMCA #EnvironmentalProtection #WasteManagement #SupportWastePickers #KeNaWPWA #CircularEconomy #CommunityInvolvement

Waste Pickers: Reframing Misconceptions & Recognizing Essential Work 💪🏽🌍 Waste pickers, often referred to as "scavengers" or as "thieves" or "mad people," face immense stigma daily. This perception stems from biases tied to the nature of their work, as pick through waste in search of recyclable materials. These individuals play an essential role in circular economy, tackling waste at its source and diverting countless tones of materials from landfills every day. Waste pickers are not “scavengers”; they are resource recovery experts and environmental heroes who keep our streets cleaner, our landfills less crowded, and our resources in circulation. The Real Story Behind the Work 🗑️ Imagine waking up each day knowing your job will expose you to filth, hazards, social stigma and invisibility. Waste pickers work without protective gear, risking their health as they handle broken glass, chemicals, and sharp metal scraps. For many, this is the only way to earn a livelihood in places where economic opportunities are scarce. This work benefits the whole community by improving sanitation, reducing environmental pollution, and supporting local industries that rely on recycled materials. Yet, they face harassment, unpredictable income, and lack any legal recognition or protection. They are left out of formal systems and viewed through a narrow lens, misjudged and dismissed because of the nature of their work. But the reality is, without waste pickers, our environmental crisis would be far worse. Changing the Narrative: Recognize & Protect Waste Pickers 🤝 To create a sustainable, inclusive future, we need to change how society views waste pickers. Rather than “scavengers,” waste pickers should be seen as partners in our environmental fight, deserving of fair wages, safe working conditions, and social respect. As awareness grows, so too should our efforts to push for policies and social programs that recognize the value of waste pickers. They are the frontline workers in our collective effort to combat pollution and promote sustainable practices. Let’s work together to break the chains of stigma, offer respect and support they deserve, and recognize that our environmental goals are best achieved when we value everyone who contributes to the cause. #RespectWastePickers #DignityInLabor #EnvironmentalHeroes #EndTheStigma #KeNaWPWA #CircularEconomy #WastePickers

Breaking the Chains of Invisibility for Kenya’s Waste Pickers 🛠️ Waste pickers are everyday heroes, silently working to keep our streets cleaner, our neighborhoods healthier and free off waste. Despite this crucial role they play, they often go unnoticed, unseen and unrecognized. They work without legal protection, facing unpredictable income, unsafe conditions, and harassment from the public and government officials 🚫. Sorting plastics, glass, metals, and other recyclables, these dedicated workers provide essential materials for recycling industries, yet never receive the acknowledgment or support they deserve. Why Their Work Matters, and Why Formal Recognition is Key 💼 Imagine the difference if waste pickers were recognized and included in formal waste management systems! With supportive policies, fair pay and active advocacy, waste pickers could boost their impact significantly, reducing pollution, promoting recycling, and helping manage the rising waste pandemic. Safe working conditions and stable incomes would not only empower these workers but also strengthen public health, sustainability, and environmental responsibility for all 🌍💪. Together, We Can Make a Difference 🌟 Let’s bring waste pickers into the light by advocating for their rights, safety, and fair treatment. Stand with us as we work toward policies that protect their contributions to a cleaner, greener, and more inclusive world 🌎. Their work deserves recognition, and together, we can help make it happen. #InclusionMatters #DignityAtWork #SupportWastePickers #EnvironmentalJustice #SustainableCommunities #KeNaWPWA #WastePickers #SocialJustice #PlasticPollution #SustainableWasteManagement #GlobalPlasticsTreaty #CircularEconomy #WasteCollectors #Sustainability #WasteManagement #ClimateAction #SocialEquity #GreenFuture #ZeroWaste #JustTransition

The Unseen Heroes of Our Waste Management System: Waste Pickers 🦸♂️ 💪 In Kenya 🌍 , waste pickers work tirelessly, sorting through mountains of waste to collect, recycle, and divert materials that would otherwise end up in landfills and water systems. Despite the critical role they play in sustainable waste practices, waste pickers face unimaginable challenges in their daily lives. Life on the Landfills: Harsh Conditions, No Protections 🗑️ ♻️ Many waste pickers live in makeshift shelters on the landfills where they work, surrounded by hazardous waste. Without access to basic PPE, they sort through materials that can contain dangerous chemicals, glass shards, and toxic waste, putting their health and lives at risk daily. Exposure to waste like this leads to respiratory issues, skin infections, and long-term health conditions. While they endure these conditions, their work remains largely invisible, receiving little to no recognition. They frequently face harassment from officials. Lack of Recognition and Support 🤲 Waste pickers aren't recognized or included in formal waste management systems. No job security, fair wages, or adequate safety measures, yet continue to perform a job that supports the health of our communities. Waste pickers deserve recognition as essential partners in the fight against waste. With support, they could operate safely and even more efficiently. The Numbers Speak: 🔢 Waste Diversion: Waste pickers in Kenya divert over 65% of recyclable materials from landfills.. Economic Impact 🪙 : Waste pickers contribute to the circular economy, reducing the need for raw materials, conserving energy, and supporting local recycling industries. Community Value 🫂 : Reducing waste in landfills, greenhouse gas emissions and lowering health risks for neighboring communities. Without their efforts, the overflow of unmanaged waste would pose a severe health risk for millions. Creating Change Through Awareness and Support 💬 It’s time to stand in solidarity with our waste pickers, recognize their contribution, and push for changes that ensure: - Proper PPE and health safeguards - Fair wages and job security - Legal recognition as essential workers in our waste management systems - Protection from harassment and exploitation By supporting waste pickers, we’re not only building a more inclusive society but also creating a cleaner, more sustainable future for us all. Waste pickers are not just workers—they are environmental champions who deserve respect, safety, and recognition for their contributions. Together, let’s raise awareness and advocate for the rights of these unsung heroes. 💚 #WastePickers #SocialJustice #SustainableFuture #CircularEconomy #GreenKenya #KeNaWPWA #PlasticPollution #SustainableWasteManagement #CircularEconomy #WasteCollectors #EnvironmentalJustice #Sustainability #WasteManagement #ClimateAction #SocialEquity #GreenFuture #ZeroWaste #JustTransition

#KeNaWPWA #WastePickers #SocialJustice #PlasticPollution #SustainableWasteManagement #GlobalPlasticsTreaty #CircularEconomy #WasteCollectors #EnvironmentalJustice #Sustainability #WasteManagement #ClimateAction #SocialEquity #GreenFuture #ZeroWaste #JustTransition https://lnkd.in/dmimM8BN

Happy Mashujaa Day, Kenya! Today, we celebrate the heroes who have shaped our nation, past and present. At the Kenya National Waste Pickers Welfare Association , we honor the unsung heroes working tirelessly to keep our communities clean and sustainable. ♻️ On this special day, let’s recognize and uplift the waste pickers who play a crucial role in creating a cleaner, more inclusive Kenya.🌱 Together, we can ensure their contributions are valued and their voices heard! 💚 Happy Mashujaa Day! #MashujaaDay #KenyanHeroes #WastePickers #SustainableKenya #CircularKenya #GreenFuture #circulareconomy #KeNaWPWA

Building a Sustainable Future Together! 🌍 By integrating waste pickers into formal waste management systems♻️, we can significantly boost resource recovery, lower environmental impact, and create lasting, impactful solutions for our sustainability goals. Waste pickers play a vital role in recycling, economic inclusion, and building resilient communities. 💪 💚 As awareness grows, the future looks brighter for responsible waste management greatly thanks to the hard work and dedication of waste pickers. They are essential to creating cleaner, greener communities, cities and a more sustainable world for all🌱. We hope this inspires you to appreciate and support the invaluable role waste pickers play in shaping a sustainable future! 🌱♻️ Contact Us at: kenyawastepickerswelfare@gmail.com #WastePickers #SustainableFuture #ResourceRecovery #GreenCommunities #WasteManagement #CircularEconomy #SocialJustice #GreenFuture #KeNaWPWA #SustainablePackaging #Empowerment #Sustainability #Recycling #EconomicInclusion

Did you know? Waste pickers are the backbone of our circular economy♻️. They recycle, reduce waste, and create opportunities for a sustainable future. Yet, many if not all, face challenges in working conditions, recognition, and fair pay! Kenya National Waste Pickers Welfare Association, is changing this! Together, we empower waste pickers, create awareness, and drive policy change to build an inclusive future. Support us and join the movement for #SocialJustice, #Sustainability, and #Empowerment! Together, we can transform waste into opportunity! ♻️ #WastePickers #CircularEconomy #GreenFuture #KeNaWPWA