Informal waste workers in Kathmandu, Nepal, particularly women, play a critical yet underappreciated role in managing the city’s waste. Kathmandu generates over 1,000 tons of waste daily, much of which is collected and sorted by these workers, often referred to as waste pickers, scrap collectors, or Kawadiwalas. Despite their essential contributions, they lack formal employment, safety protections, and access to basic health resources, making their work dangerous and life-threatening. Many of these workers are from marginalized communities and operate in high-risk environments such as streets, landfills, and garbage dumping sites. They handle sharp metals, broken glass, toxic waste, and contaminated materials without the necessary protective gear like gloves, masks, or medical aid, exposing them to frequent injuries, infections, and respiratory illnesses.
DONATE NOW TO #523
$15.00 first aid kit;
$20.00 menstrual health and hygiene kit;
and $50 personal protective equipment kit.