Decent work for whom? What the socioeconomic conditions of waste pickers reveal about the implementation of SDG 8

Objective: To analyze the social, economic, and labor conditions of recyclable and reusable materials waste pickers working in Southern Maranhão, with emphasis on the relationship between their daily reality and SDG 8. Methodology: This is a qualitative study, based on primary data collected through semi-structured questionnaires applied to 42 waste pickers, in addition to field observations. Relevance: The study fills a gap in the literature by exploring the reality of waste pickers in Southern Maranhão, a group often rendered invisible by public policies, contributing to the debate on decent work and productive inclusion. Results: The findings reveal that 78.57% of waste pickers are men, 54.76% have incomplete primary education, and 23.81% are between 38 and 47 years old. Most work from 1 to 12 hours per day and earn less than one minimum wage per month. Despite the existence of public policies, respondents remain in a situation of social and economic vulnerability. Conclusion: Although waste pickers play an essential role in the recycling chain, their labor conditions fall short of the recommendations for decent work, as outlined in SDG 8. Contributions: The research highlights the urgency of implementing inclusive public policies that promote training, formalization, and recognition of waste pickers, in accordance with SDG 8.