Where do you usually go?
On my regular workday, I pedal through Sipraya and all the way to Yaowarat.

What do you buy and how much do you make?
I’ll generally consider anything as long as it is in a decent condition. What is on my shopping list ranges from office paper, cardboard boxes, scrap metal, used furniture, old magazines and plastic bottles. I have to refuse anything in really bad condition. I am not a trash collector. I make about B6,000-7,000 per month. It doesn’t make me rich, but it’s sufficient for a normal existence.

How long have you been doing this and why?
I was a construction worker. Providing all the necessities to my family was a challenge. Being the head of the household looking after my wife and three kids, the financial burden was just too much. So, I started looking for a new opportunity to make ends meet. It has been approximately 10 years now.

What do you like and dislike about your job?
It was a lot harder working in construction. The positives range from slightly higher income to increased flexibility. However, with this there are no guarantees. It is not unusual for me to go home empty-handed.

What do you do with all the stuff you collect?
I just pass it on to the middleman, who will eventually pass it on to the recycling factory.

What is your opinion on today’s society?
This society is crooked. It is a bit worrisome, particularly being a father myself. I have come to the conclusion that education is extremely important. It is a safe bet that your kids will put it to good use. I take myself as an example of what not to do. Being a fourth-grade dropout hasn’t left me much room in society to choose my path. Life is tough.