Economías populares y solidarias: análisis de familias recicladoras informales en la ciudad de Loja

Abstract

Abstract:This research work analyzes the dynamics of informal recycling in the city of Loja. To this end, interviews were conducted with representatives of waste pickers' associations, recycling centers and public institutions, and questionnaires were administered to informal recyclers. These data were complemented by participatory observation. The results show that in the city of Loja the formalization of this sector is still under construction due to the limited support and interest of the authorities and the uncertainty that formalization generates among recyclers. It was identified that the vast majority of informal recyclers are women who depend solely on recycling and earn less than US$100 per month for this activity; they also perform this work in precarious conditions and at a disadvantage compared to their fellow recyclers. The main problem facing this sector is the competition for recyclable material. The results obtained provide the necessary basis for building a work process with public institutions that provide backing and support to this sector through the implementation of inclusive recycling plans.