# Waste Pickers Demand Climate Recognition in Africa

> African waste pickers push for inclusion in COP31's zero-waste climate plans.
- Title: Waste Pickers Demand Climate Recognition in Africa · Allafrica
- Summary: African waste pickers push for inclusion in COP31's zero-waste climate plans. South Africa's waste pickers demand recognition in Africa's climate action as…
- Keywords: south africa, african reclaimers organisation, cop31, zero waste, waste pickers, circular economy, methane emissions, nationally determined contributions, landfill waste, organic waste, Allafrica
- Source: Allafrica — https://allafrica.com/stories/202611130271.html
- Published: 2026-11-13T12:16:33+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: south africa, african reclaimers organisation, cop31, zero waste, waste pickers, circular economy, methane emissions, nationally determined contributions, landfill waste, organic waste, news, world
## COP31 Zero-Waste Push
COP31 focuses on zero waste as a climate solution through circular economy approaches.
## Waste as Climate Issue
Waste causes 20% of global methane emissions through landfills and open burning.
## Municipal Waste Growth
Municipal solid waste reached 2.1 billion tonnes in 2023 and will be 3.8 billion by 2050.
## Waste Pickers' Role
Waste pickers recover recyclables and prevent waste from landfills, rivers and the environment.
## Recognition Needed
Waste pickers lack formal recognition, social protection and decent working conditions.
## Climate Action Focus
Waste pickers must be recognized as essential partners in circular economy solutions.
## Eva Mokoena
Eva Mokoena of South Africa's African Reclaimers Organisation discusses waste pickers' climate role.
## Methane Emissions
Organic waste in landfills releases methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
## Zero Waste Benefits
Zero waste reduces emissions by recycling materials and composting organic waste.
## Policy Solutions
Governments should include waste pickers in climate legislation and provide resources.
## Zero Waste Districts
Ghana and Kenya are implementing district-level zero waste initiatives.
## Waste Picker Cooperatives
Waste picker cooperatives drive community-led circular initiatives in Ghana and Kenya.
## Investment Needs
African cities need infrastructure, equipment and fair contracts for waste pickers.
## Climate Commitments
African countries should demand direct funding for waste pickers' equipment and training.
## Waste Pickers' Role
Waste pickers are unrecognised heroes recovering materials without pay or protection.
## What Happens Next
African governments must recognize waste pickers in climate policies and provide resources.
## Key takeaway

South Africa's waste pickers demand recognition in Africa's climate action as COP31 focuses on zero-waste solutions.