In a bustling recycling warehouse in Bogotá, Sara Samaniego captures the attention of hundreds of thousands of social media followers with her infectious enthusiasm for recycling. Clad in her signature blue jumpsuit and sporting braided hair, Samaniego, also known as Marce the Recycler, blends education with entertainment, creating videos that encourage proper waste sorting and disposal.
At just 32 years old, Samaniego has transformed herself into Latin America's first recycling influencer, earning international acclaim and a devoted following across platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube. Her colorful presentations make recycling accessible and fun, prompting a passionate engagement from the youth in Colombia’s capital.
Beyond simply raising awareness about environmental issues, Samaniego highlights the important yet often overlooked role of informal recyclers in Bogotá. City officials estimate that about 26,000 individuals rely on collecting and redeeming recyclables for their livelihood, a stark contrast to many developed regions where municipal services provide scheduled waste collection. This makes the work of informal recyclers not only vital for the environment but also for the economy of the city.
By using her platform to educate and inspire, Samaniego is paving the way for a greater appreciation of recycling practices in Colombia, fostering community involvement, and advocating for the dignity of those working behind the scenes in the waste management sector. Her unique approach ignites a conversation about sustainability while offering practical solutions in a rapidly urbanizing landscape.
