Several schools have received financial recognition for their efforts against litter and for a cleaner living environment. Primary school 't Spoor from Weelde-Statie received a cheque worth 825 EUR. Additionally, De kleine wereld and De Verrekijker each received a cheque of 750 EUR.
Participation in 'Operatie Proper' required a series of mandatory actions. Each participating school had to sign and display an engagement declaration, conduct monthly clean-ups in the school's vicinity through a rotation system, and organize themed lessons on waste and litter for each grade level. Schools also had to establish an agreement framework for teachers, emphasizing their role model function, such as using lunch boxes and snack containers in the staff room, a smoking ban at school, and waste-free treats.
Primary school 't Spoor undertook additional actions. Besides the immediate school surroundings, they regularly cleaned an extra location, specifically the playground in a nearby residential area. They developed a waste bin plan, mapping existing bins, regularly checking their fill levels, and verifying correct placement and sorting stickers. The students also visited the Ravels recycling center and extensively communicated their actions via the website, newsletter, and school board.
The school 'De kleine wereld' had a collection truck visit to demonstrate its operation to the children. A working group of students was involved in the project, holding regular consultations during lunch breaks. They carried out tasks such as creating a puppet show video, setting up an idea box for other students, and ensuring the storage area for cleaning supplies remained tidy. They also painted birdhouses from waste wood. Students from the working group, along with cleaning staff, were responsible for checking waste sorting in the school bins, documenting results, and reporting them back to the rest of the school. They also focused on minimizing waste at school and during activities by using and reusing materials sustainably, such as making flags from fabric remnants.
GBS De Verrekijker participated for the first time and therefore had less scope for self-chosen action points. In addition to the school environment, they also cleaned the Weldse Bok and the skate plaza for the preschool. They established a rotation schedule for order on the playground. Lost textiles and reusable containers were placed at the school gate once a month to help find their owners.
These three schools have re-enrolled for the current school year. GBS Klimop is also participating for the first time this year. 'Operatie Proper' is an initiative that encourages schools, associations, and municipalities to actively tackle litter and raise awareness about waste prevention. The participation of these schools demonstrates that even small actions can make a big difference. Schools or associations wishing to participate can register before October 31, 2026.
