The Hidden World of Waste Pickers in Nigeria
Introduction Waste pickers, often referred to as scavengers, play a crucial but largely unrecognized role in Nigeria's waste management ecosystem. They are the individuals who manually collect, sort, and recycle waste materials from dumpsites, streets, and landfills. Despite their significant contribution to the environment and economy, waste pickers operate in the shadows, facing numerous challenges that range from health risks to social stigma. The Role of Waste Pickers in Nigeria’s Waste Management In a country where waste management systems are often underdeveloped or overburdened, waste pickers fill a critical gap. They manually sift through waste to collect recyclable materials such as plastics, metals, and glass, which they then sell to middlemen or recycling companies. This informal recycling process helps reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills, contributing to environmental sustainability. Key Contributions Environmental Impact: Waste pickers sign