Solid waste management is a global issue with implications for the environment, economy, and society at large.

In many developing countries, the primary approach to solid waste management has often involved haphazard dumping in rivers and forested lands, as well as open burning in public places.

A more systematic approach involves the use of centralized landfill facilities; however, this approach lacks emphasis on waste recovery based on waste types.

Additionally, conflicts with the local communities residing near the landfill sites can further magnify the problems, sometimes leading to the closure of landfill sites.

Recently, the transportation of waste from Kathmandu Valley to the Okharpauwa landfill site has been obstructed by local people.

Developing countries typically possess inefficient waste management systems, in which Informal Waste Workers (IWWs) play a crucial role.

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) defines IWWs as individuals or small and micro-enterprises that intervene in waste management without being registered or formally charged with providing waste management services.

According to the Solid Waste Management Act of 2068 (2011), engaging in waste management activities without proper authorization is considered an offense. Formalization provides IWWs with legal recognition, including minimum wages and social security benefits.

It is estimated that there are around 10,000 to 15,000 IWWs in Kathmandu Valley alone. They are engaged in various waste-related activities.

Based on their engagement, they can be categorized into four distinct groups: itinerant waste buyers, street waste pickers, waste pickers from collection vehicles, and waste pickers from dumpsites or landfill sites.

The itinerant waste buyers directly collect recyclable materials from various sources, mainly households and commercial places.

They act as intermediaries between waste generators and recycling facilities or middlemen. Street waste pickers handle valuable materials from streets and public places.

Waste pickers from collection vehicles work directly with formal waste management services, sorting and recovering recyclables before they are sent to landfills.

Finally, waste pickers from dumpsites or landfill sites recover recyclables, primarily from landfill sites.

IWWs make a significant contribution to waste management in several ways. Firstly, they reduce the volume of waste sent to landfill sites.

Additionally, they play a crucial role in facilitating the movement of recyclables along the waste value chain.

Their efforts in waste recovery and recycling result in significant environmental benefits, contributing to a circular economy.

It is estimated that IWWs handle around 10% of solid waste in Kathmandu City and about 15% in Kathmandu Valley. The total municipal solid waste generation in Kathmandu Valley is estimated to be 1200 metric tonnes per day.

According to UNEP, informal recycling in Jakarta (Bangladesh) has prevented 30% of waste from ending up in landfills, and in Delhi and Bangalore (India), it has kept 15% of waste away from landfills, saving the government around US$13,700 per day in waste collection and disposal costs.

Despite their vital contribution, IWWs often remain unrecognized in waste management efforts. Their presence is sometimes considered detrimental to the image of a modern city.

Additionally, they face workplace harassment and lack job security and a safety net in case of illness. Family members associated with IWWs, especially their children, also bear the social cost of their parents’ work by joining them and sacrificing their education.

IWWs lack both the space and tools necessary for transporting recyclables in large quantities. As a result, they are compelled to sell in small quantities at lower prices.

Opportunities for formalization abound, benefiting both IWWs and the city’s waste management practices. Prioritizing resource recovery has the potential to expand the waste value chain.

Most IWWs are highly vulnerable individuals who are socio-economically marginalized and disadvantaged. Consequently, they have limited access to healthcare, education, and other basic rights. Formalizing their work could help avoid such mishaps.

According to the Solid Waste Management Act of 2068 (2011), engaging in waste management activities without proper authorization is considered an offense. Formalization provides IWWs with legal recognition, including minimum wages and social security benefits.

As mentioned earlier, IWWs work in risky conditions prone to injuries and chronic illness. Tasks involving carrying, loading, and unloading collectibles can be physically straining, yet they do not have any insurance to protect against such risks.

Formalization can lead to improved workplace and personal safety, occupational health and safety training, and access to tools for a safe working environment.

Formalization can also improve the negotiating power of IWWs for better prices, enable them to access storage facilities, and allow them to collectively sell when prices are high, promoting economic empowerment.

Enhancing waste collection and recycling through the formalized engagement of IWWs could contribute to achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), especially those related to health, cities, the environment, and climate change.

While there are strengths and opportunities in formalizing informal waste work in Nepal, there are also weaknesses and threats.

The formalization of IWWs plays a significant role in sustainable waste management. It requires a comprehensive approach that addresses social, financial, technical, and environmental dimensions.

The strength lies in IWWs’ extensive knowledge of the supply chain. They have years of experience and are present in major urban areas across Nepal.

Opportunities for formalization abound, benefiting both IWWs and the city’s waste management practices. Prioritizing resource recovery has the potential to expand the waste value chain.

Nonetheless, navigating administrative hurdles during registration remains a daunting task, given IWWs’ basic understanding of such processes. Furthermore, potential conflicts with established formal sectors could hinder the formalization of their work.

The formalization of IWWs is a complex process that requires careful consideration.

The primary bottlenecks in formalization include susceptibility to market fluctuations due to a lack of essential resources such as storage and processing facilities, and technical support. Formalizing may also entail tax obligations.

The absence of awareness programs regarding the importance of proper waste management and the role of local communities as waste generators hampers the social acceptance of formalization.

The transition from informal to formal working conditions is also complex, necessitating a redefinition of IWWs’ roles.

Finally, the formalization of IWWs plays a significant role in sustainable waste management. It requires a comprehensive approach that addresses social, financial, technical, and environmental dimensions.

By doing so, the transition from informal to formal waste management can be achieved, creating a brighter future for both IWWs and the communities they serve.