Recycling network: challenges and opportunities for recyclable material collectors

Abstract

One of the alternatives for waste pickers to obtain greater benefits and increase their participation in the recycling chain is to organize themselves in self-managed enterprises, such as cooperatives, seeking articulation in networks. The general objective of this research to verify the economic and commercial potential, and the relevant aspects for the operation of recyclable materials collectors through networks. To this end, was conducted with Multiple case study in recycling cooperatives, using interviews, observations and on-site visits to solidary enterprises. From the discussion arising from the multiple case study of solidary recycling enterprises, the main contributions are in the verification of the potential and the main benefits of operating through a network of waste pickers, with the identification of six dimensions for the analysis of business networks. The study contributes to discussions and debates about the formation of networks and the influential aspects in the work of collectors of recyclable materials. The organization of collectors of recyclable materials enables a collective articulation, which can overcome structural bottlenecks that prevent them from appropriating greater value for their work. The main contribution is based on the elaboration of a proposed framework with the aspects that can influence the formation of networks of recyclable materials collectors.