Every day, thousands of resource collectors (aka waste pickers) across Indonesia work tirelessly to keep our environment clean. They are the backbone of our recycling ecosystem, yet their contributions are often overlooked and undervalued. At SRC Initiative, we believe that caring for the planet must go hand in hand with caring for the people who protect it. Supporting resource collectors means supporting stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities.
This belief came to life once again as we celebrated Earth Day this year. More than just a global moment, it became a meaningful opportunity to reconnect with the community at the heart of our work. Through TEMU SAPA, an online gathering, we brought together more than 120 resource collectors from across Indonesia. It was a simple space, but filled with powerful stories, shared experiences, and a strong sense of belonging.
This year’s Earth Day also marked an important collaboration between SRC Initiative and Niagara Cares. Together, we launched a social support initiative designed to provide meaningful and practical assistance to resource collectors. Through this effort, more than 999 individuals are receiving support in the form of work insurance and grocery vouchers, which are two essentials that directly impact their daily lives.
These supports are more than just benefits. Work insurance offers a sense of safety and protection, helping resource collectors carry out their work with greater peace of mind. At the same time, grocery vouchers provide consistent access to basic needs, easing the financial pressure on their households. Small steps like these can make a significant difference, especially for families navigating uncertainty.
Behind these numbers are real people and real stories of perseverance, care, and commitment. Every kilogram of plastic waste collected represents not just environmental impact, but also the effort of individuals who continue to show up every day. Their work prevents waste from ending up in our oceans, rivers, and land, contributing to a cleaner and healthier planet for all.
