The authors of this article argue that connecting informal waste pickers
and recyclers to the formal waste management system can potentially improve the
efficiency and sustainability of the waste management system, as well as
provide economic opportunities for the informal waste pickers and recyclers
themselves. To do so, this study analyzes the current solid waste management
practices and prospects in Karachi, Pakistan. Data were obtained through
semi-structured interviews and workshops with a sample of five officials from
governmental institutions Sindh Solid Waste Management Board (SSWMB), Karachi
Metropolitan Corporation (KMC), District Municipal Committees (DMCs) and
several waste pickers. Findings that need to be addressed revealed that solid
waste management in Karachi faces significant challenges. Potential strategies
for addressing them include involving and integrating waste pickers in the
formal waste management system, promoting the use of reusable and or recyclable
materials, and developing and improving waste reduction and recycling programs.
This can be achieved by exploring new technologies and approaches. Leveraging
the potential of Information Communication Technologies (ICT) practices such as
mobile and web applications, data analytics, and social media are used here to
help improve solid waste management practices in Karachi. As a result, the
authors conclude that connecting waste pickers and recyclers to the waste
management system through partnerships that include government, and/or
organizational programs, independent
collection and processing of recyclable materials can contribute to a
more sustainable and efficient waste management system for the city of Karachi
and scaled to other cities currently using a system similar to that of Karachi.
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