The Effects of Handling Solid Waste on the Wellbeing of Informal and Organized Recyclers: a review of the literature

Estimated at 15 million people operating globally, informal recyclers perform a vital public service while working individually or within cooperatives. This review assesses, discusses, and compiles the physical and emotional health issues of individuals who are operating in this stigmatized sector. The study highlights the self-assessed and observed health risks: chemical hazards, infection, musculoskeletal damage, mechanical trauma, emotional vulnerabilities, and environmental contamination. The review showcases the encouraging significance of working as a member of a recycling cooperative as a means of mitigating health hazards. The findings suggest the need for further qualitative research with informal recyclers and solid waste policy enforcement as well as public, commercial, and industrial cooperation.