Overview

E[co]work strives to solve one of the most challenging and pressing issues worldwide: informally and unsound electronic waste (e-waste) management in developing countries. Micro-entrepreneurs have been active in the recycling sector for a long time and thus they have a lot of valuable experience and knowledge to contribute to a sustainable recycling ecosystem. Yet, in most countries, these micro-entrepreneurs, commonly referred to as the ‘informal sector’, are seen negatively, often considered illegal and ignored by most ‘formal’ stakeholders. We are convinced that this sector is a key partner in a circular economy and support their right to process and create a livelihood from waste materials without health and environmental hazards. To reach our vision, we aim to set up E[co]work Spaces, that are co-working spaces adapted for micro-entrepreneurs in the waste sector, through a participatory design process. Co-working spaces have become increasingly trendy among tech-workers and freelancers and are known to greatly benefit start-ups and small enterprises through the sharing of essential infrastructure, enabling services and the network aspects. We believe a similar innovative approach to shared workspaces for the recycling sector has high potential for impact – through better work conditions, safer and more efficient recycling processes and an enabling ecosystem to provide business support that enables micro-entrepreneurs to grow. We are convinced that only a locally adapted and managed solution, that works as business model on its own, can bring the needed transformation and provide long-term and sustainable change. About us: As enabling service provider for micro-entrepreneurs, E[co]work Association focuses on the triple bottom line impact, rather than profit from our activities. Our goal and principle is to create, conceptualize and realize inclusive and local solutions addressing social, environmental and health problems caused by the recycling sector.