Waste Management
Even Children collect rubbish
Dangerous child labour on a rubbish dump in Turkey. Source: KfW Photo Archive / photothek.net
The uncontrolled disposal of waste constitutes a serious environmental problem in developing countries - especially in emerging and transition countries: Unsecured dumping sites contaminate water resources and soil; the uncontrolled incineration of waste pollutes the air; waste is dumped in open spaces and the countryside; and the uncontrolled leakage of greenhouse gases - particularly methane - from waste disposal sites damages the climate.
Inadequate waste disposal affects community hygiene and creates substantial health risks for the inhabitants. First and foremost poor people are affected by the negative consequences of uncontrolled waste disposal. These consequences are becoming particularly evident in urban areas, especially in large and mega cities. Population growth, rural exodus, industrial growth, the globalised economy and improving living conditions cause a disproportionate rise in waste problems, above all in the urban agglomerations of developing countries.
Growing Pressure
Recycling is widespread. "Waste-picker" is the name given to people who collect recyclable waste but are not formally employed ("informal sector"). However, the simple methods used fail to make full use of waste's recycling potential. The waste is sorted under extremely unhygienic and often dangerous working conditions and the bulk of the waste ends up on unsecured waste dumps. This work is mainly carried out by people from marginalised population groups who would otherwise find few opportunities to secure their livelihood. The work often involves the whole family. Child labour, with all its negative consequences, is the norm.
Waste management is an essential component to achieve the fundamental goals of development cooperation: Improving health protection, controlled urban development, protection of the environment and conservation of resources, climate protection, environmental education and other efforts will remain incomplete unless waste management is included. Waste management projects substantially contribute towards reducing poverty, improving living conditions, and help in encouraging sustainable economic development and the creation of income opportunities for poorer people. Waste management is a necessary but not sufficient prerequisite for sustainable development.
Last updated: July 2011
