This study aimed to analyze the perception of recycled garbage picker from the Associação dos Trabalhadores da Usina de Triagem e Reciclagem de Viçosa/MG (ACAMARE) regarding their labor conditions, as well as ther life perspectives. The sample was composed by 22 catadores. The data collection implied in a combination of quantitative and qualitative approaches. The quantitative data were analyzed through univariate statistics, while the qualitative, through content analysis. The garbage pickers had a satisfactory perception about their work, but did not perceive its recognition and valorization by the society. Many related that they work with garbage because they did not have other option. As so, the income was important to give them the possibility to improve their house conditions, as well as to give better life conditions to their children.
recycled garbage picker; social exclusion; work relations.