World Clean Up Day in Debrecen

By project ACROSS

Published on 28 January 2025

Hungary

Észak-Alföld

Debrecen

About this good practice

Illegal waste in the forests of Eastern Debrecen is a serious problem that area maintainers are constantly trying to address. Volunteers can assist in collecting illegal waste through social work initiatives. The WCUD program is an excellent opportunity for employees of local firms to participate in this action, thereby enhancing their corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts in the area of environmental protection.
The event is organized by EDC Debrecen Nonprofit Ltd. with support from various stakeholders. It involves the participation of approximately 10 to 15 local companies. Waste collection takes place in the eastern part of Debrecen, where around 70 m³ of waste is gathered in just 2 to 3 hours, thanks to the efforts of volunteers.
As a result of the action, two objectives are accomplished: the area’s forests are cleared of litter, and local businesses can showcase their contributions to the local environment.
Main stakeholders:
• EDC Debrecen Nonprofit Ltd.
• Municipality of Debrecen
• Nyírerdő Nyírségi Erdészeti Ltd. (Local Forestry Company)
• Reformed Church in Debrecen (Community of Nagycsere-Haláp)
• Zrínyi Miklós Hunting Club
• Debrecen Public Space Inspectorate
• Civil Guard of Haláp and Nagycsere
• Kortárs Szalon „Cultural Foundation”
• Local companies (10-15 entities)

Resources needed

•volunteers (100-200 persons)
•team leaders with site knowledge (10-15 persons)
•garbage collection equipment (gloves, trash bags)
•garbage containers
•food and water for the participants
•vehicles for garbage collection
•communication materials
The organisation costs ~1.5-2 M HUF (~3800-5000 EUR)

Evidence of success

1. The amount of 70 m3 collected garbage
2. More than 10 companies involved (over 100 volunteers)
3. Local stakeholders are involved (NGO, civil guard, local hunting club etc.)
4. The participating companies have also joined other local initiatives
5. Satisfaction of companies

Potential for learning or transfer

Garbage collection is regularly organized in many areas, but this initiative stands out for two reasons: (1) it involves collaboration between public and private sectors, and (2) it is a city-wide effort with over 10 participating companies.
The practice is highly adaptable for several reasons:
1. It can be implemented in various locations, regardless of geography, demographics, or economics.
2. It requires minimal resources—financial, human, or land.
3. The benefits are clear, making it easy to gain political support and public engagement.
The key to success lies in maintaining strong relationships with stakeholders, which is an advantage for EDC due to significant effort. Establishing partnerships with local companies and connecting civic initiatives with corporate goals is essential, albeit time-consuming and risky. Furthermore, creating a similar stakeholder group to support local action can be easily adapted as a transferable method.