ARO is a democratic organisation of over 6,000 reclaimers. We fight for recognition, fair pay, and justice — because the people who recycle South Africa's waste deserve to be treated with dignity.
ARO is a campaigning organisation. Our campaigns build pressure on government and industry, mobilise our members, and win recognition and rights for reclaimers.
ARO's programmes demonstrate concretely that a reclaimer-inclusive model of waste management works better for everyone.
Real change requires changes in law and policy. ARO has been a consistent and effective voice in South Africa's national policy debates.
The struggle for reclaimer rights is not only a South African struggle. ARO has built genuine relationships across the world.
ARO's story has been documented by filmmakers, students, and researchers. These films are the visual record of a movement.
Campaign wins, policy developments, international events — what ARO has been doing and fighting for.
Close to 90,000 South Africans work as informal reclaimers, doing close to 90% of all recycling in this country.
Whether you are a resident, a business, a researcher, or a reclaimer — there is a role for you in this struggle.
The most important thing a resident can do is simple: put out your recyclables in a way that reclaimers can access. Contact ARO to join the Recycling with Reclaimers programme in your area.
For businesses: buy from reclaimers, partner with ARO, and ensure your recycling contracts support the people doing the work.
For reclaimers: join ARO, register on SAWPRS, and organise together for recognition and fair pay.