JAKARTA, May 18, 2025 — The Sustainability for Resource Collectors Initiative, a nonprofit organization committed to empowering resource collectors (waste pickers) through circular solutions, organized a grocery distribution event and direct engagement with resource collectors in Penjaringan, North Jakarta. The event was held to commemorate International Waste Pickers Day and celebrate Ramadhan with the Indonesian Waste Pickers Association (Ikatan Pemulung Indonesia). A total of 300 resource collectors attended, with 250 receiving grocery packages.
“I’m really happy to join the iftar and receive this grocery support. I hope events like this happen more often,” said Hilda, a resource collector in Penjaringan.
According to The Sustainability for Resource Collectors Initiative’s data, an estimated 3.7 million people in Indonesia work as waste collectors, and 64% of them live below the poverty line. Furthermore, 42% are not covered by any health or work safety insurance due to financial barriers. The organization also notes that waste picking is ranked the sixth most dangerous job in the world.
In response to these challenges, The Sustainability for Resource Collectors Initiative serves as a bridge between resource collectors and access to education, social benefits, and economic opportunities—positioning them as key players in a circular economy and recognizing them as true environmental heroes. This effort began with grocery distribution for collectors in the Penjaringan area. In partnership with the Indonesian Waste Pickers Association as a local ally, the distribution of daily necessities is an initial token of appreciation for their environmental contributions. Each of the 250 grocery packages included 5 kg of rice, 1 liter of cooking oil, and 1 pack of instant noodles.
The event, which was also attended by the Chair of the Indonesian Waste Pickers Association, representatives from BP Taskin, and the Indonesian Recycling Association (ADUPI), not only addressed basic needs but also created space for direct dialogue between Sustainability for Resource Collectors Initiative, waste collectors, and relevant stakeholders. There is strong hope that, with the government’s planned closure of 343 open dumping landfills across Indonesia, this moment will mark a step toward the formalization of waste collectors’ roles.
Looking ahead, we will continue to expand its impact to other areas across Indonesia. We welcome collaboration from all sectors—including companies seeking to implement Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) programs that create tangible, community-level impact. Through cross-sector collaboration, we believe that resource collectors are not just marginalized workers—but environmental heroes deserving of protection, recognition, and opportunity. If your organization is looking to make a meaningful difference, we invite you to connect with us for consultation and collaboration.
