This study critically examines the role that the informal recycling sector plays in climate change mitigation in developing
countries, with a particular focus on India.

Emissions of some key greenhouse gases (GHGs), such as carbon dioxide and methane, can be traced directly to municipal solid waste. Emissions result from virtually every step in the life cycle of materials that end up as waste, from energy-intensive resource extraction, product manufacture, and distribution, to landfill maintenance and solid waste management. Recycling and waste prevention are thus crucial to the battle against climate change.

The major findings of the study showed that the informal sector (in Delhi) reduces emissions by an estimated 962,133 TCO2e which is 3.6 times more effective in reducing emissions than formal waste management units, often supported by CDM finance.