WWF Thailand, in partnership with Trang Municipality, is advancing the “Saleng Model” by building on lessons learned from Surat Thani to promote sustainable waste management.
The initiative aims to strengthen the role of waste pickers as recognised contributors to the city’s waste management system.
On 29 September 2026, Trang Municipality officially presented registered the informal waste picker members with identification cards and vests, marking an important milestone in the development of a local waste picker network. To date, 20 members have been formally registered.
With support from the MA-RE-DESIGN Project and continued engagement through the TCCF-IWPs Project, WWF Thailand conducted a field visit on 28-29 September 2026 to monitor progress and facilitate knowledge exchange. Drawing on the successful experience of the Saleng Model in Surat Thani Municipality, discussions focused on adapting key practices to the local context of Trang, including membership system development, household recyclable collection routes, linkages with relevant stakeholders, as well as welfare and data management systems.
The members shared that official recognition by the municipality has enhanced the visibility and legitimacy of their work within the community. At the same time, fluctuations in recyclable material prices and the need to secure daily income remain important challenges. These insights highlight the importance of ensuring that future model development aligns with the realities of waste pickers’ livelihoods and delivers tangible benefits for participants.
The collaboration between Trang Municipality, WWF Thailand, and the informal waste picker network represents an important step toward improving the working conditions and livelihoods of the waste pickers. It also contributes to advancing the circular economy by increasing the recovery and recycling of valuable materials, helping to create a more sustainable and resource-efficient urban waste management system.
