Higher fines, more controls, different trash bins and cleanup zones around hospitality businesses: this is how Ghent wants to become cleaner

Ghent has launched a comprehensive action plan to improve cleanliness in the city, deploying nearly 50 additional staff for quicker waste removal and stricter enforcement against littering. The city plans to increase fines, enhance monitoring, and create designated cleanup zones around takeout establishments. New waste bins will be tested for effectiveness, and 'waste sweeps' will be trialed in specific neighborhoods. The initiative aims to boost public satisfaction with waste management from 55% to 60%. The city is investing 1.3 million euros annually, supported by funds from the Flemish litter fund, to tackle littering and improve waste collection efficiency.