Growing appreciation for the economic and environmental contribution of South Africa’s waste pickers

Waste pickers, or street surfers, have become as ubiquitous a sight across urban South Africa as the minibus taxi and few would argue that they control their home-made carts with just as much dexterity. To many motorists these informal workers are seen as little more than another hazard on the country’s already hostile roads. However, to those who study the informal sector and its value, there is a rising appreciation for the economic and environmental role these individuals are playing as they ...