Abstract
Informal waste pickers (IWPs) - individuals who collect, sort and sell recyclable materials outside formal waste management systems - play a critical role in urban waste recycling and landfill reduction. Despite their vital contributions, their reliance on non-motorised transport (NMT) - such as pushcarts, bicycles and wheelbarrows - remains underexplored. This mini-review assesses the relationship between IWPs and NMT, highlighting key challenges, opportunities and research needs. The findings reveal that NMT enhances the mobility and livelihoods of IWPs, enabling them to transport recyclables over long distances and challenging terrains. However, inadequate infrastructure, including a lack of storage facilities, dedicated pathways and poorly designed vehicles, hinders their productivity and safety. Social stigma and marginalisation further exacerbate these challenges, as IWPs and their vehicles are often viewed negatively. Gender disparities also persist, with women facing additional barriers in accessing and using NMT due to societal norms and physical constraints. Current literature predominantly focuses on qualitative insights, leaving key quantitative gaps. Data on the economic benefits of NMT, the long-term health impacts of its use and the role of infrastructure improvements in optimising outcomes are scarce. Research is largely region-specific, with limited cross-regional synthesis or multi-lingual reviews. There is also a need for contextualised interventions and ultra-local research tailored to the specific challenges and opportunities faced by IWPs in diverse environments. This mini-review article calls for changes, including inclusive urban planning, policy recognition and community-driven solutions. Bridging research gaps through evidence-based and context-sensitive interventions is critical for enhancing IWPs' livelihoods and advancing sustainable waste management practices globally.