In Brazil, "catadores" collect junk and recyclables. But while they provide a vital service that benefits all, they are nearly invisible as they roam the streets. Enter graffiti artist Mundano, a TED Fellow. In a spirited talk, he describes his project "Pimp My Carroça," which has transformed these heroic workers' carts into things of beauty and infused them with a sense of humor. It's a movement that is going global.

Mundano: Trash cart superheroes

Trash cart superheroes

In Brazil, 'catadores' reclaim 90% of recyclables, yet their crucial role in waste management remains largely invisible.

Pimp My Carroça turns waste collectors’ carts into vibrant artworks, boosting their visibility, income, and social esteem.

The global expansion of Pimp My Carroça challenges us to acknowledge the vital, yet unseen, contributors in our urban ecosystems.