PROTECTING WOMEN'S OCCUPATIONAL AND PUBLIC SAFETY
Informal workers often lack protections provided in the formal economy. Waste pickers work in public spaces to collect and sort recyclable waste, putting them at risk of abuse, accidents and exposure to the elements. To address their occupational and public safety, the 3D Program is working with Kagad Kach Patra Kashtakari Panchayat (KKPKP), with support from a private sector philanthropist to repair and build material recovery facilities (MRFs) are being built through a multi-sectoral partnership. The MRFs provide waste pickers with safe, attractive and comfortable shelters, in which to sort and store materials for recycling. Some have on-site toilets and drinking water. In addition to providing shelter from abuse and the elements, the structures are well-marked and branded, further professionalizing the work of waste pickers and fostering their dignity.
A material recovery facility (MRF) maintained by SWaCH members, brightly painted to indicate the location as a recycling center for waste pickers
The proposed new MRF structure, with onsite toilets and drinking water for waste pickers