The Saprofit is a recycling cart that solves physical and social problems faced by recycling workers in Turkey. This practical and feasible solution is based on user research and offers ergonomic, operational, and safety solutions, such as load limitation, waste categorization, bottle compression, and braking system.
Product animation of the Saprofit recycling cart
Product animation of the Saprofit recycling cart
A recycling worker in Turkey. Photo by Ali Saltan.
In Turkey, the collection of recyclable domestic waste is primarily performed by street collectors, also known as recycling workers. These individuals work under difficult conditions and are not officially registered. Street collectors gather and separate recyclable waste materials, which they then sell to make a living.
The carts used by street collectors are made in small workshops, typically by welding steel tubes. However, these carts present various issues, such as causing injuries and inconveniencing city traffic.
During the user research phase, many street collectors in Turkey demonstrated a sense of insecurity and social exclusion due to the lack of legal recognition of their job, despite its crucial role in the recycling system. It was clear that these individuals face difficult conditions, and their struggles should be recognized and addressed.
A recycling worker in Turkey. Photo by Ali Saltan.