Empowering ESG Businesses and waste pickers communities in the plastic neutrality journey
Through our plastic programs we aim to keep plastic out of the environment through a circular economy and give back to the people that are helping us do that.
We recognize the essential role that informal waste pickers play in keeping plastic out of the environment and in providing what is sometimes the only form of waste management and recycling services for many countries.
Their work also benefits the environment by extending the life of landfills, preventing the leaching of plastics into groundwater, preventing plastics from being incinerated, and supplying a stream of recyclables that diminishes demand for raw materials and meets demand for recyclables.
Cleaner neighborhoods also increase the standard of living in communities while decreasing the risk of spreading diseases.
The programs implemented by MikaCycle aim to improve waste pickers' livelihoods by providing access to markets, protective gear, tools, and storage/separation/cleaning areas to be able to sell higher value recyclables and in turn earn a better living wage.
The programs work to arrange workshops and resources to educate waste pickers on business and finance management, as well as resources pertaining to healthcare, education, childcare, nutrition, etc.
Over half of informal waste pickers are women, earning significantly less than men due to general issues of gender inequality and childcare expenses.
Where possible, Mikacyle partners with organizations for implementing a long-term positive impact for women and waste pickers as a whole to support sustainable and socially responsible waste recovery.
Where possible, Mikacyle partners with organizations for implementing a long-term positive impact for women and waste pickers as a whole to support sustainable and socially responsible waste recovery.
