Last modified: 2019-09-16
Abstract
People strive to solve the problem with reducing the use of plastic and figuring out the method to recycle efficiently; however, the story of trash pickers, or “waste pickers” are barely on the topic.
The panelist has been conducting the research and fieldwork for six years with the help of XSProject[i], a non-profit organization which supports the trash pickers in Cirendeu. It buys trash to make it into products and offers scholarships for children of the trash pickers.
She attempts to uncover the life of the trash pickers and their ways of waste disposal. The result illustrates that they play an essential role in recycling in Indonesia. Their skill of sorting the recyclable and unrecyclable trash is remarkable; however, their contribution behind the trash is often underrated.
In terms of disposal waste, not only Indonesia but also many countries in Southeast Asia are supported by those people. There will never be a solution for sustainable development goals without considering such people. Sustainability for both the environment and lives of people is required.
[i] XSProject https://xsproject-id.org/