During the COVID-19 pandemic, the phrase “essential workers” tends to bring to mind first responders and hospital staff. But a key function of American society is collecting garbage to keep our communities clean. PBS station WTTW in Chicago is producing…

For generations, the Zabaleen people have hauled away Cairo's refuse and lived on the fringes of society. But thanks to an enterprising recycling school, the poor and mostly illiterate inhabitants of "Trash City" are receiving education and job training for…