What is the challenge?
Along the coast of Veere, beach pavilions generate large volumes of waste during the busy summer season. However, their unique location on the sand presents logistical and regulatory challenges. Waste collection vehicles have limited access, space for containers is tight, and there is confusion about what rules apply. On top of that, some visitors and staff are sceptical about the value of separating waste, especially given recent media reports questioning the effectiveness of plastic recycling in the Netherlands.
Why this pilot?
This pilot focuses on developing a practical and collaborative approach to waste separation on the beach. It aims to:
- Reduce residual waste from beach pavilions
- Build trust and clarity around recycling processes
- Improve coordination between entrepreneurs, the municipality and waste collectors
- Keep beaches cleaner while minimising vehicle movement and disruption
By designing a model that works with, not against, the realities of the beach environment, this pilot hopes to inspire change both locally and regionally.
What’s being done?
So far, the pilot has included:
- A joint session with pavilion owners, waste collectors, the municipality, and local associations to identify challenges and opportunities
- Follow-up conversations with national and regional waste experts to clarify regulations and build shared understanding
- Agreement among stakeholders on the need for a practical, cost-neutral system that fits the beach context
This process has helped create a foundation of trust and motivation to act.
Who is involved and what’s the 3ST approach?
The pilot is led by the Municipality of Veere, in close collaboration with:
- Local beach pavilion owners
- Regional waste collection companies
- National waste policy stakeholders
Using the 3ST Theory of Change method, the pilot focuses on small, concrete steps that can lead to systemic change over time. Solutions are tested in practice, evaluated, and adjusted collaboratively.
What will it deliver?
- A practical, cost-neutral collection model for beach waste
- Communication tools for visitors and staff to support sorting
- A coordinated collection route that reduces vehicle movements
- A replicable process for other coastal areas
The long-term goal is to reduce environmental impact while maintaining high-quality visitor experiences at the beach.
Want to know more?
Impuls Zeeland is responsible for coordinating this pilot project. Please feel free to contact this organisation if you have any questions.