Dozens of volunteers drain Jeker river in Tongeren for massive cleanup

A significant cleanup operation took place in Tongeren, Belgium, as approximately 40 volunteers dedicated their weekend to removing waste from the Jeker river. The initiative, spearheaded by local radio station Radio Dean, successfully mobilized a large group of enthusiastic participants.

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It wasn't difficult to find enough volunteers. I myself am part of Radio Dean, the local radio in Tongeren. I launched an appeal there.

"It wasn't difficult to find enough volunteers. I myself am part of Radio Dean, the local radio in Tongeren. I launched an appeal there," explained Brent from Radio Dean. The initial goal was to gather 25 volunteers, but the response far exceeded expectations, with around 40 individuals committing to cleaning various sections of the river.

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I already have a lot of experience with cleaning up. I am a teacher, and every month we go with the children to clean up in the park.

The volunteers expressed strong motivation, with many highlighting their commitment to environmental action. "I already have a lot of experience with cleaning up. I am a teacher, and every month we go with the children to clean up in the park," shared volunteer Kathy. Nadia added, "It's fantastic that it's a citizen initiative. If everyone was a bit of a volunteer, the world would be a much better place." Notably, the effort attracted participants from the Netherlands, who are also involved in similar river restoration projects.

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It's fantastic that it's a citizen initiative. If everyone was a bit of a volunteer, the world would be a much better place.

Nathalie, a volunteer from the Netherlands, explained their involvement: "We have our own foundation in the Netherlands to get the Jeker clean again." She pointed out the visible pollution difference between the Jeker and the Maas river, emphasizing the need to address the source of the problem. The initiative received crucial support from various administrations and businesses, providing necessary materials, breakfast, and thank-you gifts. The Flemish Environment Agency (VMM) assisted in lowering the water level for safety and efficiency, while the city provided garbage bags and litter pickers, acknowledging the logistical challenges of organizing such an event quickly.

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We have our own foundation in the Netherlands to get the Jeker clean again. The Jeker flows into the Maas in Maastricht, and you can see that. You see where the Jeker is, purely because of the pollution of the water. The difference with the Maas is enormous. You have to start at the source to get that clean again.