The article presents results of a research that investigated the work relations between recycled garbage pickers working in Goiânia and organizations that recycle such materials. The recycling of urban garbage figure as an emergent activity after environmentalist movements and environment preservation. Although it generates unquestionable environmental advantages, the economic benefits excel. Collecting garbage, to many workers, is the only way of guaranteing survival and inclusion in the excluding market. This research investigated the way garbage pickers understand their work relations, under what conditions perform their functions, and the work practices in garbage picking cooperatives. Ten garbage pickers were interviewed and data analyzed by content analysis. Data showed precarious and informal work relations between garbage pickers and garbage picking cooperatives. The workers are exposed to danger, victims of prejudice and stigma, and excluded from some social places.
recycled garbage picker; precarious work relations; social inclusion