Exploring the Role of Reflexive Regulation in Attaining Fair Wages for Public Sector Refuse Collectors in the Anthropocene.

This paper examines the critical role of reflexive regulation in achieving equitable wages for public sector refuse collectors in the context of the Anthropocene, a term denoting the current geological epoch characterised by significant human impact on the Earth’s geology and ecosystems. The study explores the complexities of labour dynamics within the waste management sector, where environmental degradation, economic inequality, and social justice intersect. Reflexive regulation, which involves ongoing self-evaluation and adaptation of policies and practices, is posited as a transformative approach to address wage disparities faced by refuse collectors, who are often undervalued despite their essential contributions to urban sustainability and public health.

Through a qualitative analysis of case studies, interviews, and policy documents, the research demonstrates how traditional regulatory frameworks fall short in ensuring fair compensation due to their static nature and lack of responsiveness to the evolving socio-environmental context. In contrast, reflexive regulation emphasises stakeholder engagement, promoting dialogue between workers, policymakers, and the community to co-create fair wage standards that reflect the true societal value of refuse collection work.

The findings suggest that by integrating principles of reflexivity into wage setting and labour practices, public sector authorities can create more just and equitable labour conditions. Furthermore, the study highlights how such regulatory approaches not only enhance workers' rights and livelihoods but also contribute to broader ecological resilience in the face of environmental challenges. Ultimately, this research advocates for a paradigm shift towards reflexive regulatory mechanisms as a means to foster social equity and environmental stewardship, aiming to galvanise support for fair wages for refuse collectors in a rapidly changing Anthropocene context.