TechnoServe and the Anglo American Foundation Officially Launch the Empleos Verdes Project in Arequipa
The initiative seeks to strengthen the recycling value chain, generating quality employment for youth and women
AREQUIPA, PERU (August 29, 2025) – TechnoServe, with the support of the Anglo American Foundation, announced that the official launch of the Empleos Verdes Arequipa project will take place on September 2. This initiative aims to transform the recycling value chain in the Peruvian city and generate inclusive and sustainable jobs for youth and women.
Arequipa ranks second among Peru’s regions in the generation of solid waste, producing more than 56,000 tons of usable inorganic waste each year. However, only 7% of these materials are currently recycled, highlighting the significant potential to create economic opportunities and reduce environmental impact.
The project will be implemented in six districts of the city (Cayma, Cerro Colorado, Mariano Melgar, Miraflores, José Luis Bustamante y Rivero, and Paucarpata). The first activities will begin in Cerro Colorado and Miraflores, working directly with recycler associations, individual waste collectors, recycling companies, and circular businesses. The project will will also coordinate efforts with municipalities, local industry, universities, and public-private institutions—key allies in consolidating a strong circular ecosystem.
“At the Anglo American Foundation, youth economic empowerment is fundamental to our work. Empleos Verdes Arequipa represents a great opportunity to build an inclusive, prosperous, and sustainable recycling value chain, with youth at its center,” said Verónica Melzi, Head of Partnerships and Programmes for Anglo American Foundation.
The project will also be co-implemented with Recicla Latam and Libélula, organizations that bring expertise in citizen awareness campaigns, community engagement, and strategic communication to strengthen the program’s impact in the region.
During its 18-month implementation, Empleos Verdes Arequipa will provide three cohorts with support that includes:
- Business and technical advisory support to recycling microenterprises and circular businesses
- Formalization and professionalization of recycler associations
- Training in employability and occupational safety for youth and women
- Market linkages and access to financing
- Public awareness campaigns to promote recycling and responsible consumption
With this model, the project expects to create and strengthen more than 350 direct and indirect green jobs, raise awareness among more than 41,000 citizens on improved segregation and recycling practices, and connect supply and demand more efficiently within the recycling value chain. In doing so, the project will lay the groundwork for scaling a circular economy that contributes to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs 8, 12, and 13), raising recycling rates, reducing the carbon footprint, and boosting the local economy.
“We have seen in TechnoServe projects around the world that the circular economy is critical not only for the environment, but also for generating jobs and opportunities,” said Corina Rivas, TechnoServe Country Director for Peru and Chile. “We are very excited to work hand-in-hand with the Anglo American Foundation, our partners, and the community to launch this initiative in Arequipa.”
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About TechnoServe
Founded in 1968, TechnoServe is a leader in harnessing the power of the private sector to help people lift themselves out of poverty for good. A non-profit organization working in around 35 countries, we work with people to build a better future through regenerative farms, businesses, and markets that increase incomes. Our vision is a sustainable world where all people in low-income communities have the opportunity to prosper.
More information at: Twitter @TechnoServe | Facebook @TechnoServe | LinkedIn @TechnoServe
About the Anglo American Foundation
Anglo American Foundation, founded by Anglo American, is a global and independent philanthropic organization registered in the United Kingdom and South Africa. We put young people at the center of everything we do, providing them with tools and resources to unlock their potential and drive real change. Our mission is to empower youth to advance a green and just future.
