How will Hong Kong’s ‘cardboard grannies’ survive as prices drop after new policy?

The idea of collecting cardboard boxes and used paper in exchange for a few pennies was never something Kuang Su-ling thought she would have to do for a living. It is a laborious occupation that involves working long hours and travelling inconvenient distances, often in difficult outdoor conditions.

But Kuang became a waste paper scavenger after she was diagnosed with diabetic eye disease seven years ago and lost her job as a cleaner.

“I could not find any other work and I needed money to cover my medical expenses … at least I do not have to be a beggar,” said the 63-year-old, her small build cutting a stark figure against her large cart stacked with used cardboard boxes.