SOCIO-ENVIRONMENTAL DIAGNOSIS OF RECYCLERS IN MOCOA, PUTUMAYO: A CASE STUDY ON CIRCULAR ECONOMY AND WASTE MANAGEMENT IN COLOMBIA

This study presents a socio-environmental diagnosis of recyclers in the municipality of Mocoa, Putumayo, Colombia, focusing on their role within the framework of circular economy and waste management. Through a comprehensive survey of 58 recyclers, data were collected on demographics, work conditions, education, health risks, and economic challenges. The results reveal a predominance of male recyclers (66%) and a concentration of workers aged 27 to 59 years, highlighting limited employment opportunities in the region. Most recyclers serve as heads of households (81%) despite earning below the legal minimum wage and having limited access to social security and personal protective equipment. The formalization of recycling associations, such as Ambiente Verde, is identified as a key step towards improving working conditions. However, the low level of pension contributions and social security coverage remains a critical issue. This study underscores the need for comprehensive social, economic, and environmental policies to improve the livelihoods of recyclers and enhance sustainable waste management practices in Mocoa.