{"id":14414,"date":"2025-09-12T17:55:14","date_gmt":"2025-09-12T15:55:14","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/gaq.be\/?page_id=14414"},"modified":"2025-09-18T17:23:08","modified_gmt":"2025-09-18T15:23:08","slug":"iq2025-en","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/gaq.be\/en\/iq2025-en\/","title":{"rendered":"Infor-Quartier 08\/2025\u00a0\u00a0 #37 (EN)"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

This is the extended version of Infor-Quartier 2025 in English.
Work in progress: Layout and illustrations to follow…<\/strong>

<\/strong>La version compl\u00e8te d’Infor-Quartier 2025 en fran\u00e7ais est disponible ici<\/a>.
De uitgebreide versie van Infor-Quartier 2025 in het Nederlands <\/strong>vindt u hier<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Table of contents <\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Click on a title to access the content.<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Colophon<\/a>
Editorial<\/a>
GAQ: Our work<\/a>
Poll: Cleanliness and the environment in the European Quarter<\/a>
Let’s get to know the street cleaners<\/a>
Interview with Councillor Anas Ben Abdelmoumen<\/a>
Map: The air we breathe<\/a>
A new life for the 2017 GAQ sensors project<\/a>
What more can we do for a cleaner, safer Brussels?<\/a>
Knowing the quality of your tap water<\/a>
Autour de Marguerite, it’s also about cleanliness<\/a>
Testimonial from a beautifier<\/a>
Rats and crows in Brussels: coexisting with respect<\/a>
News from our sister associations<\/a>
Along our streets<\/a>
Major urban planning files<\/a>
A stroll through the old streets of our neighbourhoods<\/a>
Europe in our neighbourhood: Gulliver in Lilliput?<\/a>
GAQ\u2019s traditional neighbourhood party and flea market<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

…vers le haut \"\"<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Colophon<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Infor-Quartier 2025, edition 37<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Infor-Quartier, annual newsletter of the GAQ, distributed for free in all mailboxes in the European Quarter of Brussels.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Printed in Belgium by Artoos
Graphics, last page and layout : <\/strong>Gero Sander<\/p>\n\n\n\n

GAQ asbl,<\/strong>
Headquarters
rue Charles Quint 130
B-1000 Bruxelles<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The GAQ’s governing body consists of seven members:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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From left to right: Christian Dekeyser (Pr\u00e9sident), Nina Bachkatov, Chantal Matthys, Michael Van Gompen<\/strong><\/strong>, Alain Dewez<\/strong>, Kristine De Mulder, Philippe de Boeck.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

www.gaq.be<\/a>
@GAQ_Bruxelles
Facebook GAQBruxelles
Publisher<\/strong>: Christian Dekeyser
Editor<\/strong>: Barbara Bentein
Editorial Board<\/strong>: Wouter Acke, Barbara Bentein, Philippe Deboeck, Hannes Frank, Chantal Matthys, Katia Vandenborre
Translation and proofreading<\/strong>: Wouter Acke, Danielle Beeldens, Jacques Boyer, Christian De Bock, Hannes Frank, Arabel Goldenson, Robert Nijhoff, Jonathon Sawdon
Photos and images<\/strong>: GAQ unless otherwise specified
Texts for Infor-Quartier 2025 were written in May-June for publication in August.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

…vers le haut \"\"<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\n\n\n\n

Editorial<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n

The past year has been marked by various actions. Here are the most significant ones: <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Urban planning<\/strong>, we participated in major cases for which appeals have been lodged, notably Newton, Cortenbergh 58 and The One (the latter has already been built and requires regularisation \u2013 which would set a precedent). The GAQ supports all these actions in various ways: support with correspondence, contacts with authorities, involvement in legal proceedings, etc. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Mobility<\/strong>, including the Schuman project, for which an appeal is still pending. Work on the roundabout has begun, and the central installation \u2013 the canopy \u2013 is likely to be abandoned. Promises of greening don\u2019t seem to have been kept in this very hard-landscaping-heavy project. The diversion of bus and traffic to streets that are not suitable for so many and such heavy vehicles causes significant disruption. The GAQ is supporting local residents in their various proceedings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Quality of life<\/strong>, notably the issue of noise and dirt caused by the renovation of the Shelton Hotel, which includes rooftop facilities and a terrace overlooking neighbouring houses. This was built without a permit. The GAQ monitored the situation and intervened.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Infor-Quartier<\/strong>, the latest edition which you are now reading, is the result of a wonderful collective effort. The articles were written by local residents. Infor-Quartier is the GAQ’s calling card. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The group \u201cF\u00eates\u201d<\/strong> organises the neighbourhood party and the flea market. It also coordinates the GAQ’s participation in Winter Pop. The GAQ provides support for the increasingly popular street parties organised by local residents.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Let’s not forget our partnerships <\/strong>with BRAL and IEB, and our participation in the meetings of the Tervuren-Montgomery\/Parc L\u00e9opold and Quartier des Arts committees. All of this cooperation creates a good vibe in the neighbourhood and yields results for the community.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Finally, we hope to continue hosting monthly meetings<\/strong> by inviting experts or politicians to speak on topics of interest to our members and friends. Please feel free to suggest topics and\/or speakers for any of these meetings.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In memoriam Michel Van Roye, former GAQ administrator and former Councillor of the City of Brussels<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Christian Dekeyser<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

…vers le haut \"\"<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

GAQ – Your neighbourhood committee<\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Our mission is to bring people together, safeguard and improve the quality of life, preserve our heritage, raise awareness about global warming, and encourage citizen participation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For more information about our work, have a look at the full online version of our magazine at www.gaq.be.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you\u2019re interested and you live in our neighbourhood, join us and become a member of GAQ! The annual fee is 25\u20ac, payable to the account provided below. Please include your name, address, and email in the transaction details. Join us and let\u2019s make a difference to our community!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Compte\/rekening\/account: GAQ asbl \u2013 IBAN BE54 3631 8311 2697<\/strong>
<\/p>\n\n\n\n

…vers le haut \"\"<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Poll: Cleanliness and the environment in the European Quarter <\/h1>\n\n\n\n

Introduction<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The cleanliness of our environment is something we feel very strongly about: our health depends on it, as do biodiversity and <\/strong>our <\/strong>quality of life. However, there are many challenges: despite our efforts, we are unable to keep our streets, squares and parks free of litter, tar and oil stain<\/strong>s<\/strong> our roads, the air is too polluted by emissions and water is viewed with suspicion<\/strong> ever<\/strong> since we heard about PFA<\/strong>S<\/strong>. Effective waste management, reducing polluting emissions and protecting natural resources are priorities for us all. The GAQ is looking into this issue in our neighbourhood.<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Results of the survey conducted by the GAQ<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

In spring 2025, the GAQ conducted a trilingual survey on cleanliness and the environment among residents and users of the European Quarter. The questions focused on cleanliness, public management, sorting of household waste, pavement maintenance, and air and water quality. By the time the survey closed on 5 June 2025, 100 people had responded. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Note: the comments in quotation marks do not necessarily reflect the GAQ’s position.<\/em><\/em><\/p>\n\n\n\n

A dirty neighbourhood<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Most residents are dissatisfied with the cleanliness of the neighbourhood, considering that \u2018the neighbourhood remains generally dirty\u2019 and even that \u2018it is deteriorating week by week!\u2019. Although they give an overall rating of 7 out of 10, they rate the cleanliness of the streets and pavements very negatively (4.9 and 3.8 out of 10 respectively). Opinions are mixed on green spaces (5.4), playgrounds (5.7) and sports fields (6). However, most criticise the waste collection system (6 out of 10).<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Public bins<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

When it comes to rubbish management, emptying public bins is the most critical issue according to respondents (3.9 out of 10). First and foremost, it is necessary to \u2018replace all the street bins that have been removed\u2019, \u2018increase their number\u2019 and \u2018empty them more often, especially after festivities\u2019, \u2018especially between April and October\u2019, and \u2018also at weekends!\u2019. These bins should be concentrated in \u2018parks and green spaces or places with high footfall\u2019, \u2018at Ambiorix Square\u2019, \u2018at Marguerite Square\u2019, \u2018at the entrance to the Cinquantenaire Park on Renaissance Avenue\u2019, \u2018near bus stops and meeting points\u2019. One person suggests opting for \u2018a type of bin that compresses waste\u2019. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Illegal dumping<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The removal of public bins has not had the desired effect of limiting illegal dumping: \u2018Illegal dumping happens anyhow!!!\u2019. Survey participants call for monitoring and penalties: \u2018Install cameras to identify illegal dumpers, who always come to the same place almost every week\u2019 and \u2018impose real penalties\u2019. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Illegal dumping also raises the issue of waste collection centres, which should be \u2018closer and accessible without a car\u2019 and \u2018open in the evenings and at weekends\u2019. One solution would be to \u2018be able to use the nearby Saint-Josse waste collection centre rather than the one in Buda, which is far away and difficult to access\u2019. Another solution would be to have \u2018bulky waste collections more regularly\u2019. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Waste<\/strong> b<\/strong>ags<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

With a population of 18,864 (IBSA[1]<\/a>), our neighbourhood produces a huge volume of rubbish bags, especially since the majority of people put out at least one white bag per week (79% of respondents). Some believe that it is \u2018up to residents to consume reasonably and produce less waste\u2019, particularly by \u2018reducing home deliveries\u2019. More structurally, it would be necessary to \u2018ban or impose a deposit on disposables\u2019 or \u2018support local businesses for the recycling of items such as bread, clothing, books and paper\u2019. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

However, most blame the waste collection system (6 out of 10), which is sometimes described as \u2018horrible\u2019. Some call for it to be \u201cstreamlined\u201d or even reformed and for \u2018a better solution\u2019 to be found, such as \u2018containers at the end of the street\u2019. The timetable is particularly problematic: \u2018The deadline for putting out rubbish on Mondays between 6pm and 8pm forces people to stay at home or come home early from work. This deadline is ridiculous.\u2019 \u2018And as many neighbours come home from work outside these hours, a lot of people put their waste out late and many bags are not collected for a week.\u2019<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In any case, there is often a delay between when the rubbish bags are put out and when they are collected, which creates a mess: \u2018Everyone leaves their rubbish bags on the street at any time of the week, which leads to additional waste deposits. This gives birds the opportunity to damage the bags and empty them by pecking at them, spreading the dirt.\u2019<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Dogs<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2018There is a big problem with some dog owners and the mess they leave behind.\u2019 It is certainly necessary to \u2018raise awareness among dog owners,\u2019 inform them of the rules (\u2018place clear and visible signs indicating the obligation to pick up dog excrement\u2019) and encourage them to comply (for example, through \u2018free distribution of dog bags\u2019). But the problem is such that \u2018owners must be punished more severely\u2019: “1) fine dog owners who soil pavements and parks; 2) fine dog owners who allow their dogs to urinate on building fa\u00e7ades. ” <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The area around the dog park in Gutenberg Square is particularly affected: \u2018Since it opened five years ago, there has been a dramatic increase in dog waste in our environment in Marie-Louise Square. The dog park itself, which used to be a beautiful green space, is now a muddy hole. It’s a disgrace!\u2019<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What can be done to improve cleanliness?<\/strong> <\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Informing and raising awareness are the top priorities. Given the \u2018high tenant turnover\u2019, it is necessary to \u2018regularly inform residents about the rules for sorting and disposing of waste\u2019, for example by means of \u2018explanatory leaflets in a range of languages, not just French and Dutch\u2019. Landlords could be required to indicate collection days, or campaigns could be launched in public spaces (at the foot of trees and on bus shelters, for example). In general, it would be necessary to \u2018raise awareness among local residents of their responsibilities in terms of cleanliness (e.g. maintenance of pavements)\u2019, targeting in particular \u2018temporary residents\u2019. This includes \u2018young Eurocrat interns\u2019, \u2018shared houses\u2019 and \u2018construction workers who throw everything away indiscriminately on the day they leave\u2019. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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At the same time, there must be monitoring and sanctions. There should be \u2018frequent inspections of the streets, even at night\u2019, \u2018surveillance of certain sites\u2019 (by \u201ccamera\u201d) and \u2018a guard (supervisor) for the beautiful, busy squares\u2019. There should be \u2018increased checks and fines for cigarette butts, illegal dumping, spitting, dog poo, and waste bags left out at the wrong time\u2019 or in the wrong place (\u2018filling public bins with waste that should be put in white bags\u2019). <\/p>\n\n\n\n

In general, there are calls to \u2018enforce waste laws and fines\u2019 and to \u2018move towards stricter punishment for anti-social behaviour\u2019: \u2018issue fines for anti-social behaviour because it breeds intolerance and undermines \u201ccommunity spirit\u201d in our beautiful, multicultural and peaceful neighbourhood\u2019. Some point to \u2018enormous shortcomings, particularly in terms of issuing fines\u2019: \u2018We often find that our authorities do not dare to issue fines […]. It is time to re-establish a framework and dare to issue fines, so that it is known and visible. From our point of view, our politicians have a responsibility to act\u2019.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Residents are calling for fundamental measures: \u2018tackling the causes, not just the symptoms\u2019. They want the current management to be improved: \u2018There is too much fly-tipping, abandoned waste bags and other minor incidents that are ONLY resolved after a complaint via FixMyStreet\u2019. One of them even suggests \u2018appointing a neighbourhood manager (someone who lives in the neighbourhood and acts as a link between the neighbourhood and the cleaning service)\u2019. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What can be done to improve the environment?<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Air quality is a major concern for residents, who rate it at 4 out of 10 and call for \u2018a more sophisticated air quality monitoring system to be put in place\u2019. It is therefore not surprising that 70% of suggestions for improving the environment in the  neighbourhood focus on reducing road traffic: \u2018drastically reduce the number of cars\u2019, \u2018fewer cars, especially diesel and petrol, fewer lorries, more electric buses\u2019, \u2018reduce the number of cars that have access to the neighbourhood\u2019, etc. <\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Transit traffic is the main target: \u2018The constant traffic jams at the Schuman roundabout and Rue de la Loi are the main source of air pollution in the neighbourhood. It is truly regrettable that the regional government is not taking any initiative to limit this transit traffic in our neighbourhood.\u2019 Several people point to the tax exemption for company cars, but the main focus is on \u2018reducing the number of cars entering Brussels\u2019, \u2018carefully considering the E40 motorway access route\u2019 and \u2018reducing the number of commuters with the long-awaited RER\u2019. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Several respondents complain about the \u2018redevelopment of the Schuman roundabout\u2019, which \u2018has diverted traffic around Ambiorix Square, resulting in a deterioration in air quality\u2019. \u2018The work on the Schuman roundabout and the reduction in traffic lanes on Rue de la Loi deliberately sacrifice the lungs of several generations of local residents.\u2019 In general, the traffic plan should be designed to limit non-residential traffic: \u2018Stop non-residents from driving through our streets. The smell is sometimes nauseating in traffic jams.\u2019 In addition, it is necessary to \u2018avoid traffic jams in the neighbourhood streets\u2019 and \u2018better enforce speed limits\u2019. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

At the same time, soft mobility must be encouraged: \u2018Encourage the use of bicycles and public transport by increasing the number of safe cycle paths and limiting car access in certain areas\u2019. There should also be \u2018more bicycle parking facilities and repair shops.\u2019 In particular, \u2018the use of bicycles should be promoted among European institution employees, who mainly come to work by car.\u2019 One incentive could be to \u2018organise more car-free days.\u2019 <\/p>\n\n\n\n

At the same time, we must \u2018continue to plant trees\u2019: \u2018more trees in the neighbourhood\u2019, \u2018more trees inside blocks\u2019, \u2018more trees on the streets and replace parking spaces with trees and green spaces\u2019, \u2018increase the number of green spaces\u2019. And why not \u2018green the Rue de la Loi to absorb fine particles\u2019?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Analys<\/em><\/strong>is<\/em><\/strong> by Katia Vandenborre<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

…vers le haut \"\"<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Let\u2019s get to know the street cleaners<\/strong> <\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n

We see them every day on our streets, they are very visible in their orange uniforms and they provide us with valuable services, and yet… Do we know who these men and <\/strong>one <\/strong>wom<\/strong>a<\/strong>n are<\/strong>,<\/strong> who make our neighbourhood a little cleaner every day? The GAQ went to meet them and invites you to get to know them a little better. On 10 April, we had an appointment with Arnold, the team leader of the street sweepers.<\/strong> <\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

The street sweepers get up very early to be ready at 6:30 am at their premises on Rue Jacques de Lalaing. Arnold himself comes every day from Aalst by train. At 6:40 am, they go to the \u2018Cap.\u2019 This is the enclosure on Ambiorix Square where the street cleaners store most of their equipment. From there, everyone goes to their \u2018post.\u2019 Before leaving, Arnold will have distributed the nine posts among the 12 members of his team. Then the team gets to work. At 2:00 pm, their work is finished and the street cleaners meet at the premises to take a shower and go home at 2:30 pm.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It should be noted that not all 12 members of the team are always present due to leave or illness.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

GAQ:<\/strong> What does the job involve? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Arnold:<\/strong> At seven of the twelve locations, the job will be to sweep the streets. At the other two stations, the job is to remove waste from bins and illegal dumping sites. And this work is done come rain, wind, frost or heatwave. The sweepers work and pick up what our negligence or carelessness has caused to fall on the ground. To do this, they all have a trolley, a broom, a shovel and a tool for opening manholes. Because yes, street sweepers also ensure that our gutters flow properly. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

GAQ:<\/strong> What else do you do? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Arnold:<\/strong> We have two robot sweepers, machines that travel along our streets and pavements to clean the road surface and collect leaves and fruit from trees that could clog the drains.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

GAQ:<\/strong> Can you tell us more about illegal dumping and the waste bags that some residents put on the pavement outside the designated times?\u2003<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Arnold:<\/strong> Every day, I check out the \u2018hot spots.\u2019 The street cleaners know the places in the neighbourhood where bulk waste is often dumped: Rue de Gravelines, Rue du Carrousel, Rue Charles Quint, Rue du Noyer, Rue Franklin, all places where fellow citizens (sometimes from Schaerbeek or other municipalities, because they don’t want to litter their own neighbourhood) come to dump all sorts of things. This is despite all the services offered by the City to enable residents to dispose of their bulky items: home collection and \u2018Bulky Item\u2019 days organised twice a year.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

GAQ:<\/strong> There are often discussions about street bins. Some people want more, others want fewer. What do the street cleaners think?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Arnold:<\/strong> There need to be enough bins in key locations. It’s true that some residents put all their household waste in them, and then they overflow. Street cleaners empty these bins twice a day into green bags, which are then collected. There is a significant lack of information and awareness among the public, despite the distribution of flyers and information packs for new arrivals. We need very graphic, easy-to-understand posters.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The GAQ could invite the street cleaners to attend the annual flea market at Square Ambiorix in September, not to sweep, but to talk to residents about their work.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

GAQ:<\/strong> What about fines for anti-social behaviour?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Arnold:<\/strong> When residents report that someone is repeatedly putting out their waste bags outside the designated days and times, or that someone is illegally dumping waste, the street sweepers’ team leader goes to the site to check. He can then call in a mediator to talk to the people concerned. If that doesn’t solve the problem, a fine will be issued. Unfortunately, we end up issuing fines to around 20 people every month. It’s a real shame.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

GAQ:<\/strong> Do you have a message for our residents?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Arnold:<\/strong> Keeping the neighbourhood clean is everyone’s responsibility. We do our bit every morning by sweeping and removing waste. We leave you with a clean neighbourhood. After 2 pm, we are no longer there. We could ask you to keep the neighbourhood clean. But at least when things get dirty after we’ve been there and you report it to us, please be courteous.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

GAQ:<\/strong> We understand that the messages Arnold receives are not always very polite. Thank you very much! Your work is greatly appreciated by those living in our neighbourhood!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Had enough laughs?<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have you noticed them yet? Next to rubbish bins or lying around on the ground? Heavy metal cylinders, brightly coloured, sometimes left behind in a cardboard box? They are nitrous oxide cylinders, which end up being dumped when empty. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Officially, they are used to inflate balloons or make whipped cream, but in reality, they are drugs. Users inhale it through a balloon and get high. It is the same product that dentists use as an anaesthetic. Since last year, the improper use of laughing gas, i.e. as an intoxicant, has been banned in Belgium. But as with many laws here, compliance is limited. The health risks, although lower than those associated with crack and heroin use, are nevertheless significant, especially with repeated use. And it does create a waste problem for us.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What is the problem? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

The problem is that incinerators can\u2019t handle these cylinders. They explode in the oven, damaging it internally. The oven must then be shut down for inspection or repair, and that all costs money. Almost \u20ac10 million per year. No small matter for our impoverished region.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If you know where to look, you can find them everywhere. The ban clearly isn’t helping. Maybe we should just be a bit more practical? Last year, around 30,000 nitrous oxide canisters were dumped in Brussels. Together, they weigh 150 tonnes, which is millions of doses. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

What if we paid a few euros\u2019 deposit per bottle to those who take them to a recycling centre? That would cost a few hundred thousand euros. A fraction of the damage currently being done to our incinerators, which runs into millions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Our region is reluctant to do this because it would be subsidising drug use. But is it any different from the injection rooms and free needles we offer to users? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Wouter Acke<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

…vers le haut \"\"<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Interview with <\/strong>Councillor<\/strong> Anas Ben Abdelmoumen, responsible for public cleanliness<\/strong><\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n
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GAQ:<\/strong> Councillor, you have just visited the European Quarter of the City of Brussels. How would you assess the situation in terms of cleanliness?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ABA:<\/strong> Generally speaking, the situation in the European Quarter is quite satisfactory. Your cleaning initiatives, such as \u201cEmbellisseurs de la Ville\u201d (City Embellishers or Beautifiers), undoubtedly contribute to this, and I would like to thank you warmly for that. Ensuring clean public spaces is obviously a daily and tedious task, and this neighbourhood also has challenges that we must address. I\u2019m thinking, for example, of rubbish bags that are not always put out at the right time or illegal dumping at the foot of trees. On some caf\u00e9 terraces, too many cigarette butts also end up on the public highway. We have sent a mediator from our cleanliness department to these caf\u00e9s to find a suitable solution with those running them. The European Quarter is also home to many expatriates who often only stay in Brussels temporarily, but it is of course essential that they too understand and respect the rules on public cleanliness. That is why we want to use more pictograms in our flyers, for example.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

\u2018Thank you for highlighting the remarkable work of our field agents, who carry out an essential mission every day, one that is <\/em><\/strong>all <\/em><\/strong>too often overlooked.\u2019<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

GAQ:<\/strong> Despite the remarkable efforts of the men, and the only woman, who sweep our streets and organise \u2018bulky waste\u2019 collection days, we unfortunately still often see illegal dumping. How do you plan to address this problem? What can we do as citizens?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ABA:<\/strong> Thank you for highlighting the remarkable work of our field agents, who carry out an essential mission every day that is all too often overlooked. With regard to illegal dumping, our approach is structured in several stages. First, awareness-raising is carried out when there is no known history at the address in question, whether for an individual or an entity. If the situation persists or in the event of serious offences, we issue fines, sometimes with the support of the police in joint operations. We also encourage citizen involvement through the Fix My Street app, which allows users to quickly report any cleanliness issues or other problems. Each report triggers a targeted response: awareness-raising, investigation to identify the perpetrators, or fines issued by our officers. Because the cleanliness of public spaces is a common good, only collective action \u2014 involving citizens, municipal services and the police \u2014 will enable us to combat illegal dumping effectively .<\/p>\n\n\n\n

GAQ:<\/strong> There are differing opinions about street bins, with some considering them essential and others seeing them as magnets for illegal dumping. What will your policy be? How will local residents be involved in the decision-making process?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ABA:<\/strong> My policy on public rubbish bins is guided by pragmatism. There is political agreement on the return of rubbish bins, but this decision must be made objectively, taking into account specific criteria. Rubbish bins will be installed where they are needed, taking into account the specific needs of each area. Each request for installation or removal will be carefully analysed, whether it comes from residents or our field teams, who know the neighbourhoods well and guide us in our decisions. Although the voice of local residents is crucial, their opinions sometimes differ, which is why we make decisions based on everyone’s feedback and the objective findings of our teams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As for our general policy, it favours the installation of bins in strategic locations: near public benches, around schools, public transport stops and in busy shopping areas, in order to meet the most obvious needs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

GAQ:<\/strong> In recent years, a new scourge has emerged: laughing gas cylinders. They litter our streets and are dangerous. What can be done? <\/p>\n\n\n\n

ABA:<\/strong> Indeed, nitrous oxide, like all other drugs, is particularly dangerous to our health. In addition, these laughing gas cylinders pollute public spaces. Every year, our services have to remove dozens of tonnes of these cylinders abandoned in the streets, squares and parks. They contain extremely dangerous substances, which makes their disposal far from straightforward. Research shows that young people still do not perceive nitrous oxide as a dangerous or risky substance for their health. More effective and targeted awareness-raising is therefore needed to change this perception. In addition, the ban on the recreational use of nitrous oxide must be better enforced and producers must be held accountable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

GAQ:<\/strong> In February 2023, the City of Brussels adopted a motion to introduce a deposit on PET bottles and cans. It also became a member of the Alliance for Deposits. At least two-thirds of citizens are in favour of this. How do you intend to translate this commitment into reality?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ABA:<\/strong> Together with the City of Brussels, we are strongly in favour of a deposit system for cans and PET bottles, as it is an effective tool in our fight against pollution in public spaces. Abroad, deposits have already reduced the amount of beverage packaging abandoned in public spaces by 90%. That is why we are delighted that a decision has been taken at European level for all EU countries to introduce such a deposit system by 2029. In our country, this falls within the remit of the regions. Together with the City, we will therefore continue to urge the Region to implement this deposit system as soon as possible.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

GAQ:<\/strong> Cleanliness also means clean air. Air pollution is responsible for nearly 1,000 premature deaths in Brussels every year. Our neighbourhood, like other neighbourhoods in the City of Brussels, is not doing well in terms of nitrogen and PM10 fine particle concentrations in particular (although for PM10, the limit value of 20\u00b5g\/m\u00b3 proposed for 2030 is respected at all measuring stations in Brussels, this is not the case for the annual value recommended by the WHO of 15 \u00b5g\/m\u00b3, which is systematically exceeded). And in relation to these issues, we are not hearing good news from the City of Brussels (LEZ policy). What message do you have for the many people suffering from respiratory, allergic, and circulatory problems, living in such a polluted environment?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ABA:<\/strong> The City of Brussels is fully aware of the impact of air pollution on the health of its residents, particularly the most vulnerable suffering from respiratory, allergic or circulatory conditions. To address this issue, several concrete actions are being implemented or developed under the leadership of my colleague, Mr Frederik Ceulemans, the Deputy Mayor for Climate. For example, the City is working on installing additional sensors to better assess the situation in all neighbourhoods and ensure an equitable distribution of measuring tools across the territory. In addition, the City is currently developing an online mapping tool to monitor air quality in real time, and there are plans to use information screens to alert residents when pollution peaks. Finally, measurement campaigns are planned in sensitive municipal buildings (schools, nurseries, retirement homes, etc.) to assess indoor air quality and make concrete improvements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

GAQ:<\/strong> As all these issues are rightly seen as very important by residents, how do you intend to maintain a dialogue that will help to ease frustration and celebrate progress?<\/p>\n\n\n\n

ABA:<\/strong> You can only implement a good cleanliness policy if you are in tune with the cleanliness challenges in each neighbourhood. That is why I attach great importance to dialogue with our residents, shopkeepers, associations and businesses. I am a hands-on person. If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment, please don\u2019t hesitate to contact me at cabinet.a.benabdelmoumen@brucity.be, by phone on 02 279 52 00 or via my social media accounts. As of this year, I will be  bringing back the Cleanliness Committees, where I will visit different neighbourhoods of the city with my teams regularly, talking to residents about the cleanliness challenges in their neighbourhood and working together to find appropriate solutions. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

…vers le haut \"\"<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Map<\/strong>: The air we breathe<\/strong><\/strong><\/h1>\n\n\n\n
\"\"<\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Air pollution has been called an \u201cinvisible health threat\u201d[2]<\/a> (1) and \u201cthe most important environmental health risk factor in Europe\u201d(2). Air pollution is directly linked to heart and lung disease, strokes and lung cancer. In 2018 unhealthy air was estimated to be responsible for over 500,000 premature deaths in Europe every year (3). In Brussels, every year 930 people die before their time due to air pollution (4). This means more than two deaths per day, and more than 10% of all deaths in the Belgian capital are caused by air pollution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

In 2024 almost half of the cases of invalidity (serious illness\/health problems) were caused by respiratory or lung diseases (5).<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Have we scared you? In this case, being scared is smart, becoming active even more so because our little quarter at the heart of Europe is no exception! Eight years ago, in the article \u201cLa pollution de l\u2019air\u201d in Infor-Quartier 2017, we described our quest for valid information about the air quality in our neighbourhood, lamenting the scarcity of sensors and valid data. We demanded more high-quality measuring stations, transparent data and maps, and, above all, effective measures to improve the air quality where we live in the heart of Europe.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The air in our quarter<\/strong><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Regrettably, much of the data relevant to our area is out of date. In spring 2025, we could identify only four \u201cofficial<\/a>\u201d stations in our area, of which only  the one on boulevard du R\u00e9gent measures the notorious PM (Particulate Matter) – fine dust particles. They are located at:  Arts-Loi<\/a> – 41B001<\/a> – measures only NO2 ; European Parliament <\/a>– 41B006<\/a> \u2013 only CO; C6H6 ; Rue Belliard <\/a>– 41B008<\/a> \u2013 only NO2 ; Bd du R\u00e9gent<\/a> – 41REG1<\/a> \u2013 NO2; PM10; PM2.5.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

One \u201cunofficial\u201d station in rue V\u00e9ron\u00e8se provides only PM2.5 values. It is part of the Sensor Community (https:\/\/sensor.community\/en<\/a> more on this later), which also has some stations in surrounding areas. The exact position of sensors is vital for understanding their values. This is because sensors along the street and at street level give values relevant for pedestrians and cyclists, while sensors on a roof or in a garden are more of general or academic interest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Instead of charts and figures, we have collected data relevant to our area in this year\u2019s Infor-Quartier centrefold map. If you want to keep current, detailed data in your pocket, we have referenced a few mobile device apps in our list below.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

We don\u2019t have much industry in our area, so where does the pollution come from? According to research published by the VUB and ULB, these emissions come from several different sources:<\/p>\n\n\n\n