Sanitation and a clean environment are every human being’s right. The ones who keep the environment clean for us are often not recognized. The sanitation workers or the garbage man collect the garbage generated by us just so that we can have a tidy and healthy surroundings.
Imagine living in a stinky and littered world. It won’t be just gross but unhealthy too; breeding ground for so many germs, viruses, and diseases. Fortunately, we have sanitation workers who are dedicated and available to regularly collect and dispose of the garbage generated by us.
The garbage men play a vital role in maintaining a hygienic civilization. Not just garbage from homes, but different sectors generate different sorts of waste or garbage. These waste products can be hazardous. To safely get rid of it and to maintain public health the garbage men step ahead to collect and dispose of such waste products. However, these people are not always appreciated for the tenacious work that they do for their local community.
History of Garbage Man Day
The owner of JDA (special waste management and sanitation firm), John D. Arwood first recognized the exceptional work of his waste disposal staff and celebrated Garbage Man Day. It was initially celebrated nationally, and John D. Arwood in 2011, funded the first Garbage Man Day. Since then, every year 17th June is recognized as Global Garbage Man Day to recognize the efforts and appreciate the work of sanitation workers.
The day got renamed officially in 2019, as Waste & Recycling Workers Week as sanitation workers don’t just consist of garbage men but many other people, like the waste recyclers.
Why Garbage Man Day?
The garbage men work in a hazardous environment. The garbage or waste they deal with has many elements that can cause them physical harm. The surroundings are also odorous which can make them fall sick, and inhaling foreign particles can even cause respiratory issues.
Medical wastes can be very harmful. Broken glass bottles can not only cause injury but the chemicals or bleaches pouring out or a little bit left in those bottles can cause burns or injuries if came to skin contact. Garbage collection and disposal are not easy tasks. Severe injuries often lead the workers to end up in hospitals, in some cases causing disabilities and even death due to severe injuries or infections.
The day should not just be celebrated to appreciate the extraordinary work of the sanitary workers but also to spread awareness about the risk and severity of the job. Every job has its importance and need. Every job and the one doing it should be applauded for their efforts and dedication.
Globally more and more organizations, companies, and communities are coming together to recognize the efforts of the sanitization workers. Even as individuals we can celebrate this day to appreciate them and contribute to keeping the environment clean by not littering in our surroundings. Participation can be marked in various awareness programs, educating the public about the sanitation workers’ work, and awarding the workers in whatever way possible.
Eduindex News 