Occupational Conditions and Well-Being Among Informal Waste Pickers in Hong Kong: A Comparative Study of 2018 and 2023.

BACKGROUND

Informal waste pickers play a crucial role in urban recycling systems but often face precarious employment and systematic marginalization. This study examines the evolving demographic, occupational, and health trends of informal waste pickers in Hong Kong between 2018 and 2023.

METHODS

This study utilized a face-to-face structured questionnaire to collect cross-sectional survey data in 2018 (N = 505) and 2023 (N = 701) across Hong Kong. Independent-samples t-tests were conducted to compare demographic variables, working conditions, income sources and levels, physical health, and negative encounters (e.g., property theft and scale manipulation) between the two periods.

RESULTS

The surveys show that the waste picker population remains predominantly older adults. Between 2018 and 2023, their living conditions exhibited significant changes across four core dimensions. First, the average monthly income from recycling and the proportion relying on the Old Age Living Allowance increased significantly. Second, a greater number of waste pickers reported being motivated by earning a basic livelihood and supporting environmental protection. Third, the proportion experiencing weighing-scale manipulation and physical injury increased. Finally, despite a significant increase in daily work rounds, the proportion reporting physical strain declined.

CONCLUSIONS

Despite nominal income gains, Hong Kong's predominantly female waste pickers face intensified structural violence via unfair markets and discrimination. Hence, female-friendly policies and other procedures, including sector formalization, the establishment of waste picker organizations, intermediary regulation, retirement and health support, and anti-discrimination public education, are suggested.