Investigation on Carbon Reduction and Waste Reduction Among MDWs

Foreign Domestic Workers’ Waste Recycling Practice Survey Report 2024

 

Community for Sustainable Development, with the support of the Environment and Conservation Fund, has recently published the "Investigation on Carbon Reduction and Waste Reduction Among Migrant Domestic Workers" as part of the "Reduce Waste and Carbon Footprint, Domestic Workers and Employers Together" project. This study explores the participation of migrant domestic workers (MDWs) in waste sorting, recycling, and other environmental practices, while identifying key challenges that hinder their engagement.

 

Key Findings:

🔹 Environmental Awareness vs. Practical Barriers: 51% of MDWs reported that they engage in waste sorting and recycling, while 68% are aware of existing recycling facilities in Hong Kong. However, nearly half do not recycle, indicating a gap between awareness and practice.

 

🔹 Employer’s Influence on Recycling Behavior: While 53.1% of MDWs are required by their employers to recycle, 26.5% expressed a desire to recycle but were not permitted by their employers. Additionally, 28.6% viewed recycling as extra work and lacked motivation to participate.

 

🔹 Insufficient Recycling Facilities: 14.3% of MDWs cited a lack of accessible recycling facilities near their residences. Among the most commonly recycled items were paper (34.3%) and clothing (24.6%), while food waste recycling remained at only 0.7%.

 

🔹 Long Working Hours Impact Participation: The average daily working hours of MDWs reached 15.5 hours, with 42% working up to 18 hours per day. This significantly reduces their capacity to engage in environmental activities. Many respondents also highlighted the lack of proper guidance and support from their employers regarding household recycling.

 

Conclusions & Recommendations:

Enhance Environmental Education for MDWs: A lack of knowledge (67.3%) was the most cited reason for not recycling. Training programs should be introduced to equip MDWs with essential waste reduction skills.

Improve Recycling Infrastructure: The government and private sector should expand access to recycling facilities, especially in areas frequented by MDWs, such as community centers and residential buildings.

Encourage Dialogue Between Employers and MDWs: Strengthening communication within households can promote a shared commitment to sustainable practices, ensuring MDWs have the necessary resources and support to participate in waste reduction efforts.

The findings highlight the vital role of MDWs in Hong Kong’s environmental efforts. However, more comprehensive policies, community support, and public engagement are essential to achieving sustainable waste reduction and carbon footprint minimization goals.

 

​Full Report: