The city of Antwerp has launched its annual campaign against litter and illegal dumping as the summer season begins.
Litter is a persistent issue in Antwerp’s parks and public squares, especially on warm summer days when crowds gather. Despite various campaigns, the problem continues to grow. Alderman for Public Domain, City Cleaning, and Waste, Ken Casier (N-VA), acknowledges this is partly due to the city’s growth but notes a positive trend: more residents are reporting litter issues, showing their concern and desire for action.
Every day, the city deploys hundreds of staff to clean up litter and illegal dumping, according to Casier, and offenders face penalties. Litter bins are readily available within walking distance, and if one is full, people are encouraged to find another or take their waste home. “A full bin is never an excuse to dump waste next to it,” Casier emphasises.
The campaign likens public spaces to one’s home, urging a sense of responsibility with the mantra: “You wouldn’t throw rubbish on your floor at home.” Large visual displays, including a giant cigarette butt, will appear in South Park, complemented by posters, social media messages, and cinema adverts to spread the message.
