Sure We Can releases the first ever study on NYC canners!

“This report contains findings from the first-ever survey of independent recyclers (also referred to as canners) across New York City’s five boroughs…The study revealed that independent recycling is a low-barrier livelihood for working-age individuals who have been shut out of the formal labor market and, notably, fills critical gaps in social safety nets for many who are elderly or coping with chronic physical and mental illness. At the same time, the results show personal benefits derived from the work, especially in relation to mental and physical health. Despite the social and environmental benefits of canning, these workers face precarious conditions, earning on average one third of the NY minimum wage under a policy framework which has not been changed to increase the redemption deposit for over forty years.”