Clear Cities

Europe helps Apeldoorn, and vice versa

This so-called European Waste Framework Directive forms the basis of EU legislation on waste. The directive is ambitious, but necessary if we are to maintain a liveable and safe Europe. In this regard, we literally have ‘no time to waste’.

In Apeldoorn, we produce around 400 kilos of waste per person each year. With a population of nearly 170,000, that is an enormous amount, though fortunately most of it is recycled. Nevertheless, producing less waste is better for people and the environment.  

The European Waste Directive aims to reduce the amount of waste and minimise its potentially harmful effects on the environment and our health. This includes, amongst other things, reducing greenhouse gas emissions, preventing waste and encouraging reuse and recycling. Through projects such as Clear Cities, European cities and regions are working together to implement these measures.

We are faced with cities that are becoming increasingly crowded: more homes, more above- and below-ground infrastructure, and a greater demand for green spaces and water. This calls for smart planning, combining functions and collaborating throughout the entire (waste) chain. We will help one another in this regard.

European and local cooperation

The municipality of Apeldoorn is a partner in this European project. We work closely with various local organisations on waste collection, prevention and emission reduction, including Circulus and Zero Waste Apeldoorn.

The Clear Cities project brings together seven cities and regions from across Europe. Organisations from Spain, the Netherlands, Sweden, Italy, Slovenia, Romania and Bulgaria are taking part to share their expertise on waste management and to work together to develop future-proof waste policies.