City of Amsterdam commits to addressing waste issue, places blame on deposit system for cans

In the heart of the Netherlands, Amsterdam is taking a more proactive approach to reducing litter on its streets. Zita Pels, the city's head of waste collection since 2020, is leading the charge in this offensive against litter louts and illegal dumping.

The increase in outdoor recreation in the city has unfortunately led to a rise in rubbish, a problem that Pels aims to address head-on. To combat this issue, special racks for bottle and can collection will be set up in more places outside the city center, making it easier for residents and visitors to dispose of their waste responsibly.

Pels is also planning to increase the number of street sweepers and introduce extra rounds in areas with more rubbish. Moreover, large containers will be placed outside student housing complexes during moving periods to facilitate disposal of waste.

The city council is not ignoring the increase in complaints about rubbish bags being dumped and torn open. In response, shopkeepers will be reminded of their legal obligation to keep the area around their premises clean. Some waste bins will even be locked to prevent people from checking for bottles and cans, reducing the incentive for illegal dumping.

To address the issue of old furniture being dumped on the streets during moves, Pels is planning a media campaign to remind students and their parents that this is an offense. The city is taking a firm stance against such actions, aiming to maintain a clean and orderly environment for all residents.

The city's parks will also see an increase in waste bins to encourage proper disposal of rubbish. However, the city is noticing a negative effect from the introduction of deposits on small plastic bottles and tins. To counteract this, more bins will be placed in parks and other high-traffic areas.

City rubbish collection trucks collect waste on 120 to 160 different routes a day, ensuring that the city remains clean and tidy. The efforts of Pels and the Amsterdam city council are a testament to their commitment to maintaining a clean and sustainable city for all its residents and visitors.