The first time we stepped onto the grounds of the recycling project was on the 28th January of this year. We saw a long queue of children standing in the baking afternoon sun with bags of all sizes in their possession. These bags were filled with plastic bottles, glass containers and the likes- their trade items. According to the number of recyclable items they bring they get a corresponding amount of “Mulas”. Mulas are best described as a form of currency for the recycling project. After registering their goods, the children proceed into a room with merchandise they can buy with their Mulas. The items range from toys to food to clothes to fishing rods. When they leave the room, they get an additional free lunch.
This project teaches them how to budget, prioritize their needs as well as environmental awareness.
We have various roles here: Some are part of the heavy-lifters who weigh the recyclable items, some are part of registration, some hand out lunch, play with the kids or assist the kids while they are on their shopping spree.