Livelihood opportunities
Creating jobs and supporting local incomes is a vital part of any successful community waste programme. Here are some ways to do this — along with considerations for making it fair, sustainable and respectful.
1. Incentives for waste collection
Offering financial incentives can encourage more people to take part in waste recovery. This could include paying waste collectors directly for their services, giving small stipends to residents who take part in regular clean-ups, or setting up a return scheme, where households receive a small fee for delivering recyclables to a collection point.
In lower-income communities, these kinds of payments can help raise the profile of waste work – but they can also create dependency if not managed carefully. Be cautious about reinforcing a system where people must pick waste to earn a living. Instead, look for ways to make the work more formal, stable, and valued – with long-term planning and systemic support.
2. Working with artisans
Involving local craftspeople is a powerful way to turn waste into something of cultural and financial value.
For example, plastic can be shaped into furniture, decor, tools, or artworks, while reflecting local traditions and skills.
This can create income for artisans, celebrate local heritage, and provide a more creative way to reuse materials.
3. Eco-tourism and educational visits
Opening up your project to visitors, students or researchers can bring in extra income while also spreading awareness.
Tours, demonstrations, or workshops can highlight the work you’re doing and help visitors understand the circular economy in practice.
These visits often have wider benefits too, like bringing attention to your region, encouraging responsible tourism, and inspiring similar projects elsewhere.
By designing your circular economy model with these opportunities in mind, you can support livelihoods while building pride and long-term support for your work.
The key is to ensure that all roles are valued, and that local people can benefit in meaningful and lasting ways.
