Urban Solid Waste Management and Social Inclusion: Challenges and Perspectives in Latin America

Objective: The general objective is to analyze waste management policies and the inclusion of informal waste pickers in the recycling system, aiming to promote the circular economy. Specific objectives include investigating the situation of open-air landfills and the role of waste picker cooperatives in C&D management. Theoretical Framework: Urban solid waste (MSW) management has been widely debated in academic literature, with emphasis on approaches that consider the inclusion of informal recyclers as an essential element for sustainable policies (Contreras Monsalve; Duran Abella, 2016; D’hers; Shammah, 2015). Altamira, Sosa and Zega (2018, p. 21) expand on this discussion by examining the social impacts of including waste pickers in municipal selective collection systems. Bachiller (2015, p. 79-80) emphasizes the difficulties in implementing Comprehensive Urban Solid Waste Management (MSWM) policies, pointing out conflicts between recycling cooperatives and private companies. Carenzo and Schamber (2021, p. 119-120) address the precariousness of waste pickers’ work, highlighting the need for public policies that guarantee better working conditions. Carré (2014, p. 1), in turn, discusses the circular economy as a sustainable alternative for waste management, highlighting the importance of the participation of urban recyclers. Method: The methodology combines a qualitative analysis of case studies in various Argentine cities with a literature review on the topic, highlighting key terms such as "circular economy," "waste management," "inclusive recycling," and "informal waste pickers." Results and Discussion: The study concludes that, although there have been advances in formalizing waste collection, challenges persist related to the social inclusion of waste pickers and the implementation of effective public policies. For the circular economy to be fully adopted, collaboration between government, companies, and informal workers is essential. Research Implications: This study therefore not only reveals the current difficulties faced by Argentina in implementing more efficient waste management, but also proposes viable ways to overcome these obstacles. Adopting a more integrated approach that involves waste pickers and recognizes their social and economic contribution is crucial to building a more sustainable, inclusive and efficient waste management model. The transition to a circular economy, despite the challenges, represents an opportunity to transform the waste management system in Argentina and serve as a model for other regions in Latin America. Originality/Value: The main problem addressed is the lack of a robust legal framework and reliable data on the generation and treatment of these wastes, which hinders the implementation of effective public policies.