Training and capability building activities are currently underway in Chennai, India, as part of the From Beach to Big Bags project.
Together with local partners, the project works to strengthen safer and more transparent waste management practices while supporting the people who play a key role in the recycling value chain every day.
The recent training sessions were carried out by Kabadiwalla Connect and focused on building practical knowledge and awareness among waste pickers and scrap shop stakeholders. The sessions covered topics including safe handling and sorting of recyclable materials, the use of protective and safety equipment, material identification and segregation, and awareness of ocean-bound plastic (OBP) and non-OBP materials. In addition, the training addressed awareness of health insurance and social protection schemes, as well as emergency support systems and workplace safety.
Waste pickers play an essential role in the circular economy and in preventing plastic waste from reaching waterways and oceans. However, their work is often carried out under difficult conditions with limited access to safety equipment, formal support systems and structured training. Through local collaboration and knowledge-sharing, the project aims to support safer working environments and strengthen transparency and responsibility across the recycling chain.
The From Beach to Big Bags project connects collection, sorting and recycling efforts with circular production solutions, turning ocean-bound plastic waste into new resources through collaboration across the value chain.
The project is funded by Danida Green Business Partnerships in collaboration with Kabadiwalla Connect and Gleco.
