In Laag Dalem in Gorinchem lives an enthusiastic litter picker who is committed to a clean neighbourhood. Armed with a grab and a rubbish bag, Barry van Baalen often goes out to pick up litter. He usually stays close to home, sometimes going to other neighbourhoods. 'Where there are people, there is rubbish. But I can do something about it myself,' he says.
Feeling good
It all started with irritation: litter everywhere. On the streets, in nature and even in his own neighbourhood. 'I didn't want to wait for someone else to clean it up, so I started myself. The great thing is that you can do it at any time and it makes you feel good.'
Cleaning with others
Usually Barry picks up litter on his own, but sometimes he joins Clean Gorinchem clean-ups. 'That's a fun way to do something good together and meet new people.' Now he also sometimes helps organise actions and posts for social media.
The craziest find
As he cleaned up, he came across all sorts of things. But the most striking thing was a crisp bag with an expiry date of May 2014. 'So that had been lying in the bushes for nine years. Bizarre how long something like that stays around.'
Comments from others
Some people look weird and shout, 'Why are you doing that? It's not your mess, is it?' Fortunately, there are also many positive reactions. 'People give compliments or clap from their balconies. That's nice to hear!'
Golden tip
Want to start litter picking too? 'Take part in a Clean Gorinchem action. Waardlanden helps with materials and makes sure the waste is collected. You meet like-minded people and see immediate results.'
Barry's wish
No more litter at all would be great. But if Barry had to choose one thing, all cigarette butts would disappear from the streets. 'They really are everywhere and contribute considerably to pollution.'