Wallonia is becoming cleaner, according to a survey and study reported by Be Wapp on Tuesday.
The Observatoire de la Propreté Publique measured the cleanliness of public spaces in 108 Walloon municipalities between 2017 and 2023. The study shows a steady decline in public dirtiness since 2017, particularly in urban areas, which are cleaner than rural areas, and rural areas being cleaner than semi-urban areas.
Residential neighbourhoods are the cleanest, while shopping districts, service stations, parking areas, and roadsides are the dirtiest. School surroundings and public transport stops also rank low in cleanliness.
The main types of waste found are bottles, cigarette butts, and wipes, far exceeding animal excrement, large illegal dumps, and various forms of damage.
A second survey aligns with these findings. According to the Wallonia Household Waste Prevention Barometer 2024, Walloons have noticed improvements since 2018. Among the 2,008 Walloons surveyed, 77% believe residential areas are clean, and more than 60% feel that the surroundings of schools, green spaces, and shops are also clean. However, they view public transport stops and roadsides less favourably.
"These results are encouraging. Public cleanliness in Wallonia is improving, and we now have concrete data to prove it," said Walloon Environment Minister Yves Coppieters. "However, there is still work to be done. We will continue our efforts in raising awareness, supporting municipalities, and cracking down on littering."
