Da Nang, April 2024: The Collector Network, a non-profit initiative powered by the social enterprise ReForm Plastic, is dedicated to improving the lives of informal waste collectors in Da Nang, and has made significant progress with the crucial support of Coca-Cola Beverages Vietnam over the past 6 months.

This collaborative project tackles three key areas: expanding The Collector Network's reach, providing essential support and benefits to members, and raising awareness of the critical role informal waste collectors play in society.

Growing the Network and Enhancing Knowledge

Throughout the duration of the project, this collaborative effort has successfully increased the number of informal waste collectors in The Collector Network’s database by 19% and now has a vast network of over 1466 members total. Furthermore, six Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) training sessions were held across Da Nang. These educational sessions equipped members with essential knowledge to minimize the risks associated with waste collection, keeping them safe while they work. Over 239 informal waste collectors participated in these training sessions, receiving personal protective equipment kits (hats, masks, gloves, and reflective vests) and transportation support to ensure their full participation.

 Da Nang Red Cross’s representative gave instruction on injuries prevention and first-aid guidance to individuals waste collectors at the Occupational Safety and Health (OSH) training sessions

"We are very pleased with the program you all are running. We never knew about all these avenues of support, such as receiving donations and learning about items we can collect to earn extra income," said Ms. Van, a waste collector in Da Nang and a member of The Collector Network. "We're grateful for opportunities like this, especially in areas where support for workers like us is scarce."

Empowering Members with Health and Income Security

Recognizing the challenges informal waste collectors face in accessing healthcare, The Collector Network, in collaboration with the Center for Adaptive Capacity Building Research (CAB) and Danang Red Cross Society, is taking a significant step forward. In April 2024, they provided health insurance to 50 deserving members as many informal waste collectors struggle to afford basic healthcare, leaving them vulnerable to illness and injury. This initiative will offer much-needed security and peace of mind to these hardworking individuals.

Waste collection workers participated in the training program on waste collection skills and knowledge by The Collectors Network

Representatives from the Center for Adaptive Capabilities Building shared instruction on waste classification

The project has also supported a pilot business collection program, which connects informal waste collectors with businesses committed to waste sorting at source, a vital step towards environmental sustainability. Five businesses have already joined the program, providing a reliable source of income for participating informal waste collectors through the collection of recyclable waste. This program creates a win-win situation, as businesses benefit from a streamlined waste management system, while informal waste collectors gain a steady income stream, and ultimately promote responsible waste management practices, benefiting both the environment and the local economy.

Raising Awareness and Building Community Support

The Collector Network actively utilizes social media to share stories and information about informal waste collectors, aiming to generate empathy and respect for their critical role in waste management and environmental protection. Over 23 articles have been published, highlighting the daily lives, challenges, and aspirations of informal waste collectors. The Collector Network, by humanizing the narratives of informal waste collectors, cultivates a deeper understanding within the community. This approach encourages people to view local informal waste collectors not only as unseen workers, but as indispensable collaborators in environmental preservation.

Stories about collectors shared on The Collector Network fanpage help increase awareness and understanding from society and the community.

A Collective Effort for a Sustainable Future

This collaborative project between The Collector Network and Coca-Cola Beverages Vietnam demonstrates a strong commitment to supporting Da Nang's informal waste collection sector. By empowering informal waste collectors with knowledge, resources, and healthcare access, the project fosters a more sustainable and equitable waste management system for the city. This collective effort ensures a brighter future for informal waste collectors while promoting environmental responsibility within the community.

"The waste we see is often viewed as a burden, but for informal waste collectors, it represents opportunity. Through our non-profit initiative, we aim to bridge the gap between these two perspectives,” said Dr. Kasia Weina, Director and Co-founder of ReForm Plastic. “By equipping informal waste collectors with the knowledge, equipment, and support they deserve, we can transform waste into a resource, empower individuals, and build a more responsible waste management system that benefits our bigger community."

ealth insurance award event for informal waste collectors at Thanh Khe District, Da Nang City

According to Mr. Bui Khanh Nguyen, Vice President of Public Affairs, Communications, and Sustainability at Coca-Cola Beverages Vietnam, “Despite their substantial contributions, the work of informal waste collectors receives little attention and understanding. It is essential to provide these collectors with opportunities for livelihood enhancement and assistance in transitioning into the formal waste management sector. Through our partnership with The Collector Network, we have not only expanded the impacts our global vision for a “World Without Waste” but also connected with informal waste collectors, acknowledging their pivotal role as unsung heroes in waste collection, segregation, and recycling efforts, all of which contribute to the realization of a circular economy and decarbonization.”

The success of The Collector Network has ignited plans for national expansion across Vietnam, bringing vital support to even more informal waste collectors. This innovative initiative is also inspiring action beyond borders. ReForm Plastic, with its extensive network of franchise partners across Asia and Africa, is already adapting these valuable lessons to empower over 10,000 informal collectors around the world.