Young, educated and knee deep in rubbish: the recyclers cleaning up in Cairo's Garbage City
Briefly

Mina Nedi, a nursing graduate, shifted to his father's recycling business in Manshiyet Nasr to combat climate change and plastic pollution. He sorts thousands of plastic bottles daily, emphasizing commitment to environmental awareness among young Egyptians. Known as our 'Garbage City', Manshiyet Nasr processes 80% of Cairo's waste, home to around 200,000 residents. The community has long faced stigma despite their critical role in keeping the city clean. A past incident highlighted their impact, as rubbish piled up during a community mourning period, underlining the vital services they provide and the challenges they face.
Mina Nedi, 25, decided to join his father's recycling business in Manshiyet Nasr after graduating with a nursing degree, driven by a determination to help the environment.
Nedi and his team sort through thousands of plastic bottles daily, compressing them for recycling, highlighting the growing awareness among young Egyptians regarding climate change and plastic pollution.
Manshiyet Nasr handles up to 80% of Cairo's waste but faces stigma, as many residents are deterred by the overwhelming stench of rubbish on the streets.
The community known as zabaleen, has a pivotal role in waste collection and processing, underscoring the contrast between their essential work and societal perception.
Read at www.theguardian.com
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