Comprehensive contributions of the informal sectors in Solid waste management Systems: A case study of Central Johannesburg

Abstract

The informal waste management sector has become one of the most key components of solid waste management and has been part of society and the economy for three decades. Waste picker activities are within the lower spectrum of the waste management value chain. However, their challenges in functioning as waste pickers are misunderstood, given the rise in the waste within areas in Central Johannesburg. Waste pickers are paramount in the effective diversion of solid waste by steering and processing waste, further creating resilient systems in urban environments, and ensuring recycling practices. The study was completed to comprehensively understand the current contributions of the informal waste collectors within Central Johannesburg. The study area of Central Johannesburg, particularly Mayfair and Braamfontein, was selected as these two areas exhibit over population and urbanization coupled with residential and business-related activity. With these factors, Central Johannesburg has a high waste output. The study had four main objectives being the identification of the challenges the informal waste collectors in Central Johannesburg experience, the identification of the effectiveness of waste picker contributions from a citizen perspective, the examination of existing policy documents for solid waste management in Johannesburg as well as the identification of the best theoretical framework for the inclusion of waste pickers into formal solid waste management strategies in Johannesburg. The research used qualitative methodology with aspects of quantitative methodology. Using snowballing and purposive methods, twenty-five (25) waste pickers were surveyed along with twenty-two (22) citizens, four (4) informal waste pickers NGOs and NPOs and two (2) local authoritative figures. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the relevant individuals, based on ethical grounds. A total of sixty (60) published data such as journals and news articles were analyzed to substantiate the objectives of the study. Furthermore, four (4) solid waste management policy documents from a national, provincial, and local perspective were analyzed. The research identified that waste pickers along with informal waste NGOs and NPOs, have challenges with coordination such as effective trolleys, being accepted by society and the amount of money they earn from their operations. Citizens had stated that they do have their recyclables collected by waste pickers on a weekly basis and have identified that waste pickers do play a role in waste management within Central Johannesburg, and further aid recycling efforts within the area. However, local authorities have stated that there is a need for waste picker involvement in decision-making and policy formulation. Solid waste management policy documents enforce effective waste management strategies for citizens and the city however there are gaps regarding waste picker integration into strategies, as waste management is regulated. The Inclusive Governance Framework is the most effective theoretical framework as it involves all individuals in decision-making, including marginalized groups. The study revealed the various dynamics among citizens, and waste pickers, and local authorities. There is a need for awareness programs for waste management education for citizens. Local authorities within Central Johannesburg identify with the waste picker operations however have also identified challenges such as poor relationships between them and waste pickers. Solid waste management policy documents are integrated however do not cater to waste picker activity more effectively and the Inclusive Governance Framework would allow for all stakeholders, including waste pickers, to deliberate in policy formulation and decision-making, providing them with equity and justice.