4. Waste and the Circular Economy
In the area of waste and circularity, we are committed to reducing litter, raising awareness of the issue, and supporting litter cleanup brigades. We also work with Avri to keep residents informed about new developments.
4.1 Theater Performance: A Nod to the Sun
On June 4, it was time for the theater performance “A Wink at the Sun.” This lighthearted children’s show highlighted a serious yet surprisingly fun theme: the reuse of raw materials.
With plenty of humor, cheerful songs, and interactive moments where the audience could join in, the actors managed to get the children excited. Several classes from our community came to watch the show, and Ms. Anne even got to participate. By riding a bike, she generated electricity, which was used to turn waste into new products.
4.2 Donation Rings
Since October 2025, we have had 10 donation rings installed on various trash cans throughout our municipality. These rings are designed to allow residents to donate returnable bottles and cans instead of throwing them away. This gives returnable containers a second life and allows other residents to collect the deposit.
The pilot is made possible thanks to funding from Statiegeld Nederland. With this support, we are exploring how donation rings can help reduce litter and increase reuse within our municipality.
4.3 Polder Beachcombers
In April and October, 13 clubs once again set out to clean up litter. Clubs can sign up for this initiative every year. After two cleanup days, they receive a contribution to their club funds. A lot of trash was collected again. It was a successful cleanup effort and an opportunity to raise awareness about the litter problem.
4.4 Cigarette Ash Vacuum Cleaner
One challenge our municipality’s litter cleanup crews face is picking up cigarette butts. These are difficult to grab with a litter picker and take a lot of time. That’s why our municipality has purchased a cigarette butt vacuum cleaner for the cleanup crews.
This allows them to pick up cigarette butts more quickly and easily during their cleanup rounds.
Of course, it’s even better if cigarette butts end up in the trash can right away. That’s why we’re focusing on placing ashtrays in trash cans at so-called “hotspots” and promoting this through a campaign.