This session explores how inclusive circular economy policies, business models and partnerships can empower waste pickers and other informal workers as key agents of resource recovery, decent work, and equitable economic growth while advancing a just transition to circularity.

Informal workers are central to material recovery and circular value chains across emerging economies. The session will demonstrate how to strengthen their integration into the circular economy, drawing on India’s experience alongside perspectives from Asia, Africa, Latin America and the Caribbean as well as examine pathways to improve livelihoods, social protection and resource efficiency through a just transition.