Reclaiming the Discarded

In "Reclaiming the Discarded," acclaimed author Kathleen M. Millar presents a powerful ethnography set against the backdrop of Jardim Gramacho, a vast garbage dump near Rio de Janeiro. This 277-page book delves into the lives of approximately two thousand self-employed workers, known as catadores, who diligently collect recyclable materials amidst the refuse. Millar challenges the conventional view of scavengers, illustrating that their work transcends mere survival; it is intertwined with deeper notions of a fulfilling life and the complexities of human existence.

Published in 2018, "Reclaiming the Discarded" encourages readers to reconsider the societal implications of waste disposal and the often-overlooked contributions of those who work in informal economies. Millar’s insightful exploration sheds light on the resilience and resourcefulness of the catadores, making this book an essential read for anyone interested in social conditions, recycling practices, and urban ethnography.