A disability-inclusive waste management centre as a valuable partner for the circular economy

Solution
Centro Inclusivo ‘R’
Organization
Kyklos
Country of Implementation
Chile
Region
Latin America & Caribbean
Subregion
South America
Start Year
2019
First published
03.12.2024

Kyklos in Chile runs CIR, a recycling center employing individuals with disabilities. By 2024, it employed 19 of 30 staff, combining waste management and inclusion.

A group of workers at a recycling facility sort materials with dedication. Wearing masks and gloves, they exemplify environmental responsibility and sustainability. This image underscores the value of recycling work and promotes environmental justice by highlighting laborer's roles in waste management.
In 2024, out of a total of 30 employees at CIR, 19 were people with intellectual disabilities.

Solution details

People

Trinidad Robles Website
“Inclusion as an opportunity for recycling, recycling as an opportunity for inclusion.” Sebastián Herceg, Director de Asuntos Corporativos, Kyklos

Kyklos is a mid-sized company located in Santiago de Chile operating in the waste management and recycling sector. In 2019 it established the Centro Inclusivo ‘R’ (CIR), a waste recycling centre employing a high percentage of individuals with intellectual disabilities. Between 2022 and 2023, CIR experienced business growth along with an increase in its inclusive workforce. By mid-2024, 19 persons with intellectual disabilities were employed out of a total workforce of 30.

Problems Targeted

With the rising need for ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) compliance, companies in supply chains must provide evidence of social responsibility.

Solution, Innovation and Impact

Kyklos, based in Santiago de Chile, operates within the waste management and recycling sector. In 2019 the company inaugurated the Centro Inclusivo ‘R’ (CIR), serving as both a waste recycling centre and an inclusive employment model. CIR has demonstrated significant environmental, social, and economic impact by assisting its clients in meeting their objectives and legal requirements related to waste recycling and labour market integration. At CIR corporate waste is meticulously separated and transformed into valuable resources and materials. Individuals with intellectual disabilities are employed in various roles, including waste collection, sorting, weighing, and repairing materials to enhance their lifespan. CIR implements a hybrid model combining supported employment in the open labour market with elements of sheltered employment. Sheltered employment involves schedules tailored to each worker’s capabilities, adapted tasks, continuous therapist support, and ongoing training for the non-disabled team members to manage diverse situations effectively. Between 2022 and 2023, CIR expanded its client base from 38 to 55, which led to an increase in processed waste from 285 tonnes to 404 tonnes annually. Additionally, 4,463 pallets and 68.4 tonnes of electronic equipment were recovered. Employment of individuals with intellectual disabilities also saw growth, with 7 permanent contracts in 2019, 11 in 2023, and 19 projected for 2024.

Funding, Outlook and Transferability

Kyklos is a for-profit company in the recycling industry, operating without government funding. In 2024, Kyklos planned similar projects in Antofagasta, Concepción, and Valparaíso, and aims to employ about 100 people with disabilities by 2026. (Zero Project Awardee 2025)

Media

Pictures

A group of workers at a recycling facility sort materials with dedication. Wearing masks and gloves, they exemplify environmental responsibility and sustainability. This image underscores the value of recycling work and promotes environmental justice by highlighting laborer's roles in waste management. In 2024, out of a total of 30 employees at CIR, 19 were people with intellectual disabilities.
A group of workers at a recycling facility sort materials with dedication. Wearing masks and gloves, they exemplify environmental responsibility and sustainability. This image underscores the value of recycling work and promotes environmental justice by highlighting laborer's roles in waste management. In 2024, out of a total of 30 employees at CIR, 19 were people with intellectual disabilities.

Related information

Connections
2

Solutions with the same:

Country of Implementation

Chile

Region of Implementation

Latin America & Caribbean