River Scheldt selected for European Inspire project to tackle plastic pollution

14 March 2025

The Scheldt is one of six waterways selected for 'Inspire', a European pilot project that brings together the Flanders Marine Institute (VLIZ), the Flemish Institute for Technological Research (VITO) and River Cleanup to tackle plastic pollution.

The initiative is urgently needed as some areas of the Scheldt contain up to 11,000 microplastic particles per square metre, much of it coming from the port of Antwerp. Plastic waste accumulates along the banks and in the vegetation, with an estimated 96.2% of the litter on the banks being plastic, mainly packaging and cigarette butts.

Technology and community engagement

To tackle this problem, VITO is using drones and AI-powered cameras under bridges to track and analyse plastic flows. River Cleanup has introduced Belgium's first smart EcoBin in Temse, a waste container equipped with sensors that monitor waste levels in real time, allowing for more efficient collection and preventing bins from overflowing.

A clean-up event organised by River Cleanup will take place on 6 April. Meanwhile, the JRC Floating Litter Monitoring App, developed by the European Commission's scientific service, allows citizens to report plastic pollution, helping to collect data and raise awareness.

Scalable model for cleaner rivers

The Inspire project combines scientific research, advanced technology and citizen participation to develop a scalable model for tackling plastic pollution. Project coordinator Gert Everaert aims to create a globally applicable framework that will allow governments and organisations to implement the most effective strategies.

In addition to the Scheldt, five other rivers - the Rhine, Po, Danube, Douro and Kamniška Bistrica - have been selected as test sites. With a budget of €10 million, the project contributes to the EU's goal of restoring water bodies by 2030.