The experience of Fundación El Árbol demonstrates how global transformations begin in communities. From southern Chile, the organization has championed the recognition of grassroots recyclers, promoted zero-waste models, and built alliances that strengthen a global movement against plastic pollution.

Twelve years ago, in Concepción, a group of people decided to tackle the environmental crisis from a holistic perspective, taking into account ways of living, producing, and consuming. Thus, Fundación El Árbol was born, focused on zero waste, the regenerative economy, and empowering grassroots waste pickers.

For its executive director, Milton Neira, the mission remains “to balance the relationship between people, society, and nature.” This purpose is realized through three lines of work: the social and environmental regeneration of ecosystems; the promotion of regenerative economies and decent work—especially for grassroots waste pickers; and the promotion of zero-waste strategies to reduce waste and transform communities’ relationship with it.