At Onnut 14 Rai, PETWood is building more than a recycling system — we’re building equality, opportunity, and sustainable livelihoods. Through our GEDSI (Gender Equality, Disability, and Social Inclusion) framework, PETWood has transformed the community’s informal waste-collection hub into a safe, structured, and fair workspace for local waste pickers — especially women and youth.
Infrastructure Improvement
The project began by upgrading the existing collection center into a cleaner, safer, and more organized facility. The improved site now allows waste pickers to sort, store, and weigh recyclables more efficiently, reducing health risks and increasing safety and dignity in their daily work. PETWood provided durable materials made from our own recycled boards to construct the storage bins and sorting tables — turning waste into infrastructure that supports the circular economy.
Incentive Program Enhancement
To strengthen community participation, PETWood introduced a Mixed Plastic Collection Incentive model that rewards inclusive recycling. Under this program:
Waste pickers who collect high-value recyclables earn 12,000 THB per month on average.
Those who also bring in low-value recyclables and PET cups can earn up to 14,000 THB per month, with PETWood committing to buy PET cups at 5 THB/kg.
This incentive gives each household 1,000 THB more income monthly, helping families achieve greater financial stability while encouraging the recycling of plastics that are often overlooked.
Inclusive Participation
Today, 13 informal waste collectors — including women, elderly members, and youth — have joined forces to form a local recycling team. Together, they manage 4.4 tons of recyclable waste every month, a 10% increase from before the program started.
By integrating GEDSI principles, PETWood ensures that recycling at Onnut is not only environmentally sustainable but also socially equitable, giving every community member a role and a reward in shaping a cleaner city.
Community Impact
The Onnut GEDSI initiative demonstrates that circular innovation and inclusion can go hand in hand. By turning waste into worth, PETWood creates a positive cycle of income, empowerment, and impact — improving livelihoods while reducing pollution in Bangkok’s urban communities.
“We’re not just collecting waste — we’re collecting opportunities for a better future.”
