Mental Health Risks Among Informal Waste Workers in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal

Karki, Alisha; Karki, Jiban; Joshi, Saugat; Black, Michelle; Rijal, Barsha; Basnet, Sijan; Makai, Prabina; Heckmann, A Fossier; Baral, Yuba Raj; Lee, Andrew

doi:10.1177/00469580221128419

Cited by 2 publications

(2 citation statements)

References 24 publications

(32 reference statements)

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“…Additionally, the study delves into the unwavering dedication of female informal waste workers to their families, illuminating their profound sense of responsibility and emotional attachment despite the formidable challenges they encounter in juggling work and familial obligations (Karki et al, 2022). The narratives shared by participants vividly portray the deep-rooted motivation driving these individuals to persevere amidst adversity.…”

Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 95%

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Untold Stories from the Slums: A Qualitative Exploration of the Lives of Female Informal Waste Workers

John,

Tushir,

Srivast

2024

Preprint

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The present study investigates the nuanced experiences of urban informal waste workers, shedding light on the intricate realities shaping their daily lives. Employing purposive sampling, in-depth interviews were conducted, specifically targeting female participants aged eighteen and above, engaged in informal waste work for a minimum duration of one year. A total of ten in-depth interviews were meticulously executed, with recordings subsequently translated and transcribed for thorough analysis. Utilizing Braun and Clark’s thematic analysis method, a comprehensive examination of the data yielded a hierarchical structure comprising codes, sub-themes, and overarching themes. The central themes identified encapsulate the multifaceted challenges encountered by urban informal waste workers, including Occupational Hardships and Vulnerability, Economic Struggles and Diminished Quality of Life, Dedication to Family, Emotional and Psychosocial Tribulations, Gratitude and Acknowledgment of Support Received, Reluctance to Seek Assistance, and Aspirations and Hopes for the future. By amplifying the voices of these marginalized workers, this study advocates for the implementation of inclusive policies and interventions tailored to address their diverse needs within the urban milieu. Through its findings, the study aims to cultivate a more compassionate and supportive environment that not only recognizes the invaluable contributions of urban informal waste workers but also strives to enhance their overall well-being and socio-economic standing.

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Section: Discussionmentioning

confidence: 95%

“…Beyond physical health, waste workers endure discrimination and stigma, negatively impacting their psychological well-being (Karki et al, 2022). Female waste workers, in particular, are vulnerable to mental health disorders .…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Untold Stories from the Slums: A Qualitative Exploration of the Lives of Female Informal Waste Workers

John,

Tushir,

Srivast

2024

Preprint

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Waste Management in Nepal: Characterization and Challenges to Promote a Circular Economy

Labra Cataldo,

Oyinlola,

Sigdel

et al. 2023

Circ.Econ.Sust.

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In Nepal, the informal sector is responsible for treating 15% of household waste. It is the only alternative to landfilling and open disposal; however, the current waste management system does not acknowledge informal recyclers aggravating various challenges and vulnerabilities that the sector already faces. This study identifies and validates for the first time the challenges of the informal waste sector while providing a granular understanding of the actors that shape waste management in the region. The study uses primary data collected over a period of 6 months in Kathmandu and Lalitpur, the first and third most populated areas in Nepal. The methods considered were semi-structured interviews, questionnaires, and a co-creation workshop with formal and informal actors. A novel characterization of waste management actors was conducted to identify two profiles namely cyclists and scavengers and question the formality of the collection centres. Findings suggest that the price volatility of recycled materials and the lack of treatment and absence of regulatory capacity are among the main challenges in promoting a circular economy from the informal sector. The recommendations to overcome these challenges are a series of policy reforms, such as an extended responsibility producer scheme and the review of the tax on recycled material transport. The main policy implication from the finding reveals that circular economy is already being promoted by the informal sector — a responsibility that should fall under the remit of the regional and national governments. The study concludes that integration is not only necessary to improve the conditions of informal workers but essential to developing a circular economy in Nepal.

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Mental Health Risks Among Informal Waste Workers in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal

Cited by 2 publications

References 24 publications

Untold Stories from the Slums: A Qualitative Exploration of the Lives of Female Informal Waste Workers

Untold Stories from the Slums: A Qualitative Exploration of the Lives of Female Informal Waste Workers

Waste Management in Nepal: Characterization and Challenges to Promote a Circular Economy

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