Recycling in business in Colombia and Peru, contributing to the circular economy to reduce poverty and increase environmental sustainability (#1848)

Authors

Zapata Carnaqué, Esperanza Marlene

Moreno Gutierrez, José Luis

Abstract

Formalization of recycling is an essential process that improves efficiency, increases citizen participation, and complies with environmental regulations, benefiting both the environment and the community. This study, based on a quantitative methodology with 1,632 surveys and 40 interviews with public leaders, proposes a business model that integrates recyclers into the formal economy. The objective is to reduce poverty, promote social inclusion, and improve the Agenda 2030 indicators. The results show that the formalization of recycling generates formal employment and improves the income of waste pickers, who experience a significant increase in their income compared to those in informality. An improvement in environmental sustainability is also observed, with a reduction in solid waste in cities with formalized recycling programs. The findings highlight that formalization is effective in reducing poverty and promoting social inclusion by providing wastepickers with employment benefits, education, and access to health services, improving their quality of life. In addition, the implementation of this model contributes to the fulfillment of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in relation to ending poverty (SDG 01), reducing inequalities (SDG 10), and climate action (SDG 13). The study highlights the importance of public policies that promote the formalization of recycling as a key tool for socioeconomic development in Colombia and Peru. . .