In Syria, informal waste collectors-especially women and children-face hazardous, unsafe work with no protections or income security. This project transforms waste collection into safe, sustainable livelihoods through cash-for-work, PPE, health screenings, and training in business, safety, and advocacy. Micro-grants support small recycling enterprises, creating lasting economic, social, and environmental impact while promoting formal integration and improved community awareness.
Syria, informal waste collection is marked by unsafe conditions, lack of protections, and extreme vulnerability, especially for women and children exposed to hazardous materials, UXOs, and conflict risks. Collectors work without equipment, healthcare, or income security, excluded from governance and decision-making. This perpetuates poverty, gender inequality, and environmental harm. Despite sustaining urban cleanliness, they remain marginalized with no training or advocacy.
It is combining short-term support with long-term impact. Resources are used efficiently through cash-for-work, personal protective equipment (PPE), and health screenings while building capacity via business, safety, and advocacy training. With modest funding, micro-grants create sustainable recycling enterprises, delivering high economic and social returns.
Long-term outcomes include safer working conditions, stronger and more resilient livelihoods, and the formal recognition and integration of waste collectors into local systems. Progress will be measured through the establishment of new enterprises, increases in household income, and improved community awareness around health, safety, and environmental protection.
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