The International Alliance of Waste Pickers (IAWP)

is a democratic member-based global union federation of 59 waste pickers organisations across 38 countries in Africa, Asia Pacific, Europe, Latin America & Caribbean and North America, representing more than 500,000 waste pickers. Our members form a diverse workforce in the informal economy, actively collecting, sorting, and selling discarded materials for recycling and reuse—often in challenging conditions. Waste pickers make essential contributions to waste management and the circular economy by recovering large quantities of reusable and recyclable materials, frequently surpassing formal systems. Our constituents’ work mitigates plastic pollution and reduces carbon emissions, significantly advancing environmental sustainability.

The Alliance addresses the challenges faced by waste pickers by raising our voices at local and global levels and advocating for our constituents’ rights, recognition, and improved working conditions. We are committed to empowering waste pickers, promoting inclusivity, and ensuring their vital role receives the respect and support it deserves.

The Executive Council is the organization’s key decision-making body. It is formed by all affiliates and meets every five years to elect the Executive Council, including the Office Bearers.

Research

We document and analyze the realities of waste pickers across the globe — from working conditions and environmental impact to access to rights and inclusion in public systems. Our research helps amplify the voices of waste pickers and supports evidence-based advocacy at local, national, and international levels.

Advocacy

IAWP works to strengthen the political voice of waste pickers by supporting grassroots organizing, influencing public policy, and engaging with international institutions. Our goal is to ensure waste pickers are recognized as essential workers and granted social and labor protections.

UN Plastic Treaty

Active participation of the International Alliance of Waste Pickers in the process

The United Nations is in the process of negotiating a global treaty to tackle plastic pollution. This treaty aims to address all stages of the plastic life cycle, including design, production, and disposal.

Waste pickers of all the world

The boundaries on the map shown here are based on Google Maps, and IAWP does not agree with or endorse any of the borders marked on the map.

United for our rights

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