DENPASAR, May 2, 2025 — The Sustainability for Resource Collectors Initiative (SRCI), a non-profit organization committed to empowering resource collectors through circular solutions, held a food package distribution and a face-to-face meeting with waste collectors at the Suwung Landfill in Denpasar. A total of 250 waste collectors attended and benefited from the event, which was also attended by SRCI Indonesia Country Manager, Annisa Fauziah.
“Resource collectors play a significant role in protecting the environment, but the reality in Indonesia is that the waste management sector is largely informal. Many of them come from marginalized groups and do not receive adequate social protection,” Annisa said in her remarks.
According to SRCI records, 3.7 million people in Indonesia work as waste collectors, and 64% of them live below the poverty line. They also lack guaranteed health and job security (42%) due to inability to pay. The foundation also noted that waste collectors are the sixth most dangerous job in the world. “In terms of access, 21% of workers have difficulty accessing technological devices and the internet, preventing them from accessing information and greater opportunities,” he explained.
Therefore, SRCI exists to connect Resource Collectors with educational programs, social benefits, and opportunities, making them key players in the circular economy and seen as true environmental heroes. This initiative began with the distribution of basic food packages to Resource Collectors around the Suwung Landfill. In conjunction with the Bali Life Foundation as a local partner, this distribution of daily necessities served as an initial token of appreciation for their contribution to environmental protection. There were 250 basic food packages, each containing 5 kg of rice, 1 liter of cooking oil, and 1 packet of instant noodles. This activity not only met basic needs but also opened a space for direct dialogue between SRCI and the waste collectors.
In addition to these activities, the SRCI also runs various other programs to support improving the quality of life of Resource Collectors. Some of these programs include occupational health and safety programs, skills and literacy education, family nutrition programs, and more. All programs are designed to address the fundamental challenges faced by waste collectors and encourage their inclusion in sustainable economic development.
“We believe that by providing equal access to information, social protection, and economic opportunities, resource collectors can become key actors in a just and sustainable circular economy,” Annisa continued.
The SRCI is also open to collaboration with various parties, including companies seeking to implement CSR programs that have a real impact on society. Through this partnership, SRCI is ready to help companies design and implement targeted and impactful social programs for waste collectors in Indonesia.
“In line with our mission, we hope this initiative will be the beginning of a long-term collaboration to improve the welfare of resource collectors and provide them with broader access to inclusive social programs,” Annisa added.
Going forward, we will continue to expand our impact to other regions across Indonesia. We welcome collaboration from all sectors—including companies seeking to implement Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs that create a real impact at the community level. Through cross-sector collaboration, we believe that resource gatherers are not simply marginalized workers—but environmental heroes deserving of protection, recognition, and opportunity. If your organization wants to make a meaningful difference, we invite you to contact us for consultation and collaboration.
