Boonlert

Boonlert is a 51-year-old married woman living with her husband and elderly mother in a suburban village in Surin province, Thailand. Her family primarily relies on rice farming for their livelihood, while Boonlert runs a recycling shop to supplement their income.

Boonlert started her recycling business in 2007. This business serves as her secondary source of income alongside rice farming. During the off-season, she works full-time at her recycling shop, where she goes out to purchase, collect, and categorise recyclable materials like plastic, paper, and metal, which she later sells to factories or larger recycling stores in the region. Over the years, Boonlert has built a network with residents and local businesses who contribute to her recycling venture.

As demand for recycling services continues to grow, Boonlert aims to expand her operations. She is looking to purchase additional equipment that will enhance her services and improve operational efficiency. To enhance her operations, Boonlert has applied for a loan to purchase a second-hand sidecar motorcycle and a large weighing scale. The motorcycle will allow her to travel nearby the local area more efficiently, picking up recycling items from her customers while saving on fuel costs compared to using her car for short distances.