Supporting and strengthening junk dealers and recyclers

In 1973, the City Government of Manila passed an ordinance regulating scavenging in the city by requiring scavengers to operate in non-tourist area and secure permits. Otherwise, they would be fined (P20.00 to P100.00) and/or imprisoned from one to six months. Scavengers are an integral part of the junkshop-recycler network. These junk shops and small recyclers have come a long way as waste managers. Now, they are being recognized by the larger community as agents for urban environmental protection. There is a growing realization, at the national and local levels, that the alternative waste pathway through junkshops and recyclers is more beneficial for the common good of the public, the government and the environment than the usual waste collection and disposal system currently being managed by the government through dump trucks and landfills. There are about 1000 junk dealers and about 300 recyclers in Metro Manila. This paper has three major topics, namely, 1) previous government projects dealing with junk shops and pushcart collectors; 2) efforts of NGOs and individuals in supporting and strengthening this informal sector; and 3) some legislative agenda for junk shops and recyclers.