The important and often unrecognized work of individuals who collect and recycle waste from landfill sites or city streets in the Lao PDR is documented in a report issued by the World Bank today. "Unseen Green Jobs, a Study on Informal Waste Workers" details the role of waste pickers in building a green economy and recommends actions to protect them against dangers and improve their legal status.
The study assesses the working and livelihood conditions and waste recycling practices of informal waste workers in Vientiane Capital, supporting Lao government efforts to develop a comprehensive information base and understanding of their situations. These workers play a critical role in recycling efforts, reducing material in landfills, and helping to extend the lifetime of these sites. This forms an important social service and promotes a circular economy—when materials and products are kept in circulation for as long as possible to reduce waste and environmental impacts.
“Informal workers such as waste pickers often exist outside the formal protection of the law,” said Alex Kremer, World Bank Country Manager for the Lao PDR. “This means they miss out on safety net schemes like health insurance, and also lack support systems for health and safety. This study lists measures that would greatly improve their situation, for example by providing occupational health training and protective equipment such as gloves and boots.”
Some of these workers tour Vientiane’s streets, picking up recyclable waste from households and commercial premises, while others live and work at the Km 32 landfill outside the city. In addition, formally employed waste collectors, truck drivers, and scrap yards link waste pickers with the recycling market. Their role is becoming increasingly important due to rising levels of solid waste and limited collection services—only around 31% of households have access to waste collection services in Vientiane, with recycling rates remaining low.
Waste workers face constant risk of injury from handling sharp objects, contaminated materials, and accidents. The fact that they have limited bargaining power increases their vulnerability to poverty, health issues, social challenges, and economic risks. The children of waste workers are also vulnerable; many work as waste pickers themselves, missing out on school education.
Action is needed to give more recognition and protection to those providing this vital function. Measures should include providing training and equipment, improving working conditions, ensuring access to welfare benefits, healthcare services, and safety protections.
The study was conducted with the Jobs Group's support from the Jobs Umbrella Multi-Donor Trust Fund. It forms part of World Bank support for Laos’ National Green Growth Strategy to 2030—a resilient, inclusive economic strategy aimed at boosting employment while reducing human health costs associated with economic growth.