Gender Analysis, Recycling in Jordan Activity, January 2021

The activity focused on the Greater Amman area, where the informal sector plays a significant role in waste management. The sector-wide approach involved working with the private sector, informal sector workers, and local authorities to address the challenges facing the recycling sector. The activity's purpose was to identify the key challenges and opportunities in the recycling sector, with a focus on gender equality and social inclusion. The research aimed to understand the roles and experiences of women and men in the informal sector, as well as the private sector's engagement with the recycling sector. The study also examined the regulatory framework and institutional arrangements governing the sector. The research design involved a mixed-methods approach, combining both qualitative and quantitative data collection and analysis methods. The study included key informant interviews with stakeholders from the private sector, informal sector workers, and local authorities. The research team also conducted a literature review and analyzed data from various sources, including the Jordanian National Committee on Women and the Ministry of Environment. The findings highlighted several cross-cutting themes in the recycling sector, including the lack of formal employment opportunities for women, limited access to training and capacity-building programs, and inadequate infrastructure and equipment. The informal sector was found to be dominated by men, with women playing a smaller role in waste collection and sorting. However, women were more likely to be involved in recycling activities, such as sorting and selling recyclables. The study also identified several challenges facing the private sector, including limited access to finance, inadequate regulatory frameworks, and a lack of awareness about the benefits of recycling. The private sector was found to be more likely to engage with the recycling sector when there were clear economic benefits and a supportive regulatory environment. The research concluded that the recycling sector in Jordan has significant potential for growth and development, particularly if the challenges facing the informal sector and private sector are addressed. The study recommended several sector-wide recommendations, including the development of a national recycling strategy, the establishment of a waste management authority, and the provision of training and capacity-building programs for informal sector workers. The study also made several recommendations for the informal sector, including the establishment of a formal recycling cooperative, the provision of access to finance and equipment, and the development of a code of conduct for informal sector workers. The private sector was recommended to engage more actively with the recycling sector, through the development of clear business plans and the provision of training and capacity-building programs for employees. The research team expressed gratitude to the stakeholders who participated in the study, including Chemonics International and the Jordanian National Committee on Women. The study's findings and recommendations are intended to inform the development of policies and programs aimed at promoting social inclusion and improving the recycling sector in Jordan.