Barbechas, or waste pickers, play a crucial role in the transition to a circular economy in Tunisia.
Their contribution to recycling and waste management is not only significant from an environmental standpoint but is also essential for the economic and social development of the country.
Contribution to Recycling and Economic Impact
Barbechas are responsible for two-thirds of the recycling of waste in Tunisia, primarily collecting plastics, paper, cardboard, and metals. In 2022, Tunisia produced approximately 2.6 million tons of waste, of which only 4 to 7% was recycled. This highlights the importance of barbechas in the recycling value chain, as they recover a large portion of materials that would otherwise end up in landfills.
The work of barbechas contributes not only to the cleanliness of cities but also generates income for many families. Around 8,000 barbechas are active in Tunis, and their activities represent significant economic potential. According to estimates, the development of recycling infrastructure could create up to 100,000 new jobs and generate a GDP growth of 0.8%. However, despite their crucial role, these workers often operate without legal recognition or social coverage.
Main Materials Collected by Barbechas
In Tunisia, barbechas play a critical role in waste collection and recycling, focusing primarily on several materials. They primarily collect plastics, including PET bottles and HDPE containers, as well as plastic films used for packaging.
Additionally, they collect cardboard from various types of packaging and metals, such as cans. While some barbechas also collect organic waste for composting, this remains a marginal practice. Their work significantly contributes to reducing plastic pollution and maintaining the cleanliness of public spaces, especially in a context where waste management infrastructure is insufficient. Despite the challenges related to their informal status, their contribution is vital for Tunisia’s circular economy.
A Crucial Role in Environmental Protection
Barbechas play a crucial role in environmental protection in Tunisia through their contribution to waste recycling. By collecting recyclable materials such as plastic, cardboard, and metals, they recover nearly 67% of the plastic recycled in the country.
Their work helps reduce the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and contributes to the cleanliness of public spaces, particularly beaches and urban areas often overwhelmed by plastic waste. In addition to their direct impact on recycling, their presence in the streets encourages some citizens to sort their waste and hand it over to barbechas rather than discarding it in unsorted bins.
A Challenging Occupation
Despite their significant contribution, barbechas face several challenges. They work in precarious conditions and are often stigmatized by society. Moreover, most of the waste they collect is sent abroad for processing, which limits the potential for local recycling and its economic impact.
Initiatives are beginning to emerge to improve their situation. For instance, some NGOs support barbechas by providing access to collection points where they can sell their recyclable materials at a better price. These efforts also aim to raise public awareness about the importance of recycling and to integrate barbechas into a more formal circular economy.
Barbechas represent an indispensable link in the waste management system in Tunisia. Their role in recycling and waste valorization is crucial for environmental sustainability and economic development. To maximize their positive impact on the circular economy, it is essential to improve their working conditions and integrate them further into public policies related to the environment and recycling.
Source: tunisienumerique
