The environmental wardens in Zele collected a significant amount of waste in 2025: 7.8 tons of residual waste and 444 PMD bags with litter alone. Additionally, another 14.49 tons of waste were cleared following reports of illegal dumping. In total, this amounts to over 22 tons of waste that did not belong in the streetscape.
The municipality continues to focus on a combination of resident reports, on-site inspections, camera surveillance, and awareness campaigns. This approach is proving effective, leading to a higher apprehension rate for offenders and a more targeted approach to problem areas.
During the Week of Enforcement, the municipality organized an initiative where fifth-grade students from the Kouter-Basisschool, together with community warden Sven Christiaens, spent an hour each day cleaning up litter. This action aims to make young people aware of the impact of litter on their living environment.
Besides illegal dumping, smaller forms of litter such as cans, food wrappers, and cigarette butts also have a significant impact. Research indicates that young people and young adults are more likely to dispose of their waste improperly. Therefore, Zele supports the awareness campaign 'Gij toch nie?' (You, not you?) with signs at various locations.
Anyone who deliberately throws waste on the ground risks a municipal penalty (GAS-boete). This applies not only to illegal dumping but also to discarding smaller items like a can or cigarette butt.
The municipality and IDM continue to focus on enforcement, awareness, and collaboration. Residents are urged to dispose of waste correctly, report illegal dumping via the Gemeente-App, the online reporting form, or IDM's green number (0800 166 36).
“"Pupils from Kouter-Basisschool and Sven Christiaens next to the pile of waste collected by the Zele environmental wardens in just two weeks during their fight against litter and illegal dumping."
