Syrian refugees scavenge burning refuse heaps for survival income

Displaced Syrian families have resorted to scavenging through large waste dumps, searching for recyclable materials that can be sold for subsistence income. Workers, including children and elderly persons, navigate through mountainous accumulations of burning refuse under hazardous conditions to extract metals, plastics, and other recoverable materials.

The practice underscores the severe economic pressures facing Syria's displaced population, many of whom lack formal employment opportunities and access to basic social services. With limited livelihood options available, families have turned to waste collection as a means of generating daily income to meet fundamental needs.

Working conditions at the dumps present significant health and safety risks. Participants face exposure to toxic fumes from burning waste, sharp debris, and unsanitary environments. The activity generates minimal financial returns, with families earning substantially below subsistence levels despite investing long hours in the work.

The situation reflects broader challenges confronting displaced populations across the region, where prolonged displacement, limited access to formal labor markets, and inadequate humanitarian assistance have driven vulnerable groups toward informal and dangerous livelihoods. International organizations have raised concerns about the deteriorating humanitarian conditions and the vulnerability of displaced Syrians to exploitation and health hazards.