Problem

Colombia is one of the most vulnerable countries to humanitarian crises and disasters, ranked 29th out of 191 countries by the 2022 Inform Risk Index. One of the priorities of Columbia’s national long-term climate strategy for 2050 is the reduction of solid waste destined for final disposal by using emergent technologies for prevention, utilisation, recycling, and treatment. In 2021, more than 14 metric tons of municipal solid waste was generated in Colombia, with only 82% collected for treatment and disposal. Approximately 55% of municipal recycling in Colombia is performed by informal recyclers, and the Government estimates there are at least 60,000 informal waste workers in the country.

However, despite the significant contribution to Colombia’s climate goals, there are certain negative stigmas for workers in this sector. Women for example, accounting for 42% of Bogotá’s registered recyclers, suffer double discrimination, both as women and as waste pickers.

Responses

ENDA Colombia is a non-governmental organisation that recognises that climate change not only has repercussions on the environment but also on the people, especially women, in all their diversity and the population in poverty. In its commitment to climate change mitigation, ENDA seeks to support women’s civic participation through training community leaders to ensure decent work in Bogota’s recycling sector.

Together with local community organisations, ENDA has sought to develop a holistic urban model that addresses the stigma against recyclers and recognises their right to life without violence. This model includes participatory territorial planning, urban gardening, cultural activities and a community savings and credit initiative for women to address gender inequalities. The Training of Trainers (ToT) programme in natural resource management and political participation strengthened women's leadership and control over their income.

As of 2022, 30 tonnes of paper and 12 tonnes of plastic were recycled annually in Bogotá, saving 120,000 kWh of electricity, avoiding the deforestation of 600 trees and the accumulation of 4,000 kg of rubbish in landfills; 26 women were officially recognised as social and environmental agents of change, enabling them to exercise their democratic rights to fight for equal pay and a decent work environment; 20 spokeswomen had participated in municipal decision-making processes on environmental, gender and local budget topics, recognised in their role as leaders in the transformation of urban practices leading to social, cultural and climate benefits. 

Find out more: Women Engage for a Common Future