Abstract

Abstract for: Social Inclusion Variables of Waste Pickers that Influence Reverse Logistics

Introduction The scarcity of natural resources and increasing waste generation necessitate a transition to circular models. However, this shift is hindered by complex sociotécnico barriers. In developing contexts, waste pickers are central yet marginalized actors. Their social exclusion creates a systemic bottleneck, as the success of material recovery depends on the empowerment and socioeconomic emancipation of these vulnerable populations.
Approach This study identifies social inclusion variables for waste pickers and their feedback links with reverse logistics (RL). A systematic literature review was conducted, selecting 73 relevant studies. Content analysis identified social and operational variables, which were integrated into a Causal Loop Diagram (CLD). This approach allows for the representation and analysis of complex causal relationships and systemic feedback mechanisms within the problem.
Results The findings indicate that waste pickers' living conditions, government support—including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies—and operational conditions are key inclusion elements. Specifically, the integration efficiency and technical training acts as a leverage point, transforming informal activities into formal productive systems. These factors collectively function as fundamental drivers for RL performance and the effective closure of product cycles.
Discussion The study demonstrates that reverse logistics faces infrastructure and social challenges integrated within a complex sociotechnical process. Using Causal Loop Diagrams (CLDs), this research reveals how guaranteeing rights and social inclusion for vulnerable individuals directly reinforces systemic circularity. This provides a theoretical framework for policymakers, showing that social empowerment is a prerequisite for achieving long-term environmental sustainability.

Introduction	The scarcity of natural resources and increasing waste generation necessitate a transition to circular models. However, this shift is hindered by complex sociotécnico barriers. In developing contexts, waste pickers are central yet marginalized actors. Their social exclusion creates a systemic bottleneck, as the success of material recovery depends on the empowerment and socioeconomic emancipation of these vulnerable populations.
Approach	This study identifies social inclusion variables for waste pickers and their feedback links with reverse logistics (RL). A systematic literature review was conducted, selecting 73 relevant studies. Content analysis identified social and operational variables, which were integrated into a Causal Loop Diagram (CLD). This approach allows for the representation and analysis of complex causal relationships and systemic feedback mechanisms within the problem.
Results	The findings indicate that waste pickers' living conditions, government support—including Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies—and operational conditions are key inclusion elements. Specifically, the integration efficiency and technical training acts as a leverage point, transforming informal activities into formal productive systems. These factors collectively function as fundamental drivers for RL performance and the effective closure of product cycles.
Discussion	The study demonstrates that reverse logistics faces infrastructure and social challenges integrated within a complex sociotechnical process. Using Causal Loop Diagrams (CLDs), this research reveals how guaranteeing rights and social inclusion for vulnerable individuals directly reinforces systemic circularity. This provides a theoretical framework for policymakers, showing that social empowerment is a prerequisite for achieving long-term environmental sustainability.