# Unequal Burdens: Gendered and Socioeconomic Dimensions of Occupational Health Among Hong Kong’s Informal Waste Pickers

## TL;DR

This study examines how gender and socioeconomic status affect the working conditions and health of informal waste pickers in Hong Kong, highlighting the need for targeted support for vulnerable female workers.

## Contribution

The study provides new empirical insights into the intersection of gender and socioeconomic status in shaping occupational health outcomes among informal waste pickers in Hong Kong.

## Key findings

- Female waste pickers from lower socioeconomic backgrounds face worse working environments and lower incomes.
- Psychological health risks are higher among female waste pickers with lower socioeconomic status.
- Tailored healthcare and social support systems are needed to address these disparities.

## Abstract

Background: This study explores the multifaceted inequalities faced by informal waste pickers in Hong Kong, focusing on the impacts of gender and socioeconomic status in shaping their working environment, income, and psychological health. Recognizing that social stratification encompasses a series of structural factors, i.e., gender, race, and socioeconomic status, we aim to fill the gap in existing literature regarding the precarious employment of this population. Methods: Utilizing a comprehensive, territory-wide survey, we analyzed the experiences of male and female waste pickers across different socioeconomic backgrounds. Differences between genders for continuous variables were assessed using the independent samples t-test. Differences across categories defined by gender and socioeconomic status were analyzed using one-way ANOVA, followed by post hoc comparisons with the least significant difference (LSD) method. Results: Our findings indicate that both gender and socioeconomic status significantly influence working environment, occupational income, and psychological health outcomes. Specifically, female waste pickers from lower socioeconomic backgrounds face more adverse working environments, lower income levels, and heightened psychological health risks compared to their higher-status counterparts. Conclusions: These results underscore the urgent need for targeted outreach and tailored healthcare services for vulnerable female waste pickers, as well as social support systems that empower them to negotiate with intermediaries and recycling shop owners. By recognizing their essential role in Hong Kong’s urban recycling ecosystem, this study advocates for policies that address these disparities and promote psychological health and social well-being among this marginalized group.