rssApr 26, 2026, 05:30

Cigarette butt picker Erik keeps the streets of Haarlem clean

Erik, a retiree in Haarlem, voluntarily cleans up cigarette butts to protect the environment and keep local streets and playgrounds clean. While Dutch municipalities call for the tobacco industry to cover rising cleanup costs, Erik focuses on community action and provides portable ashtrays to smokers. His initiative highlights the severe environmental impact of cigarette waste, noting that a single filter can pollute 1,000 liters of water.

Politics Lifestyle Health Haarlem Netherlands

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Everything about King's Day: Flea markets, public transport tips, and more news from this week

Amsterdam is preparing for King's Day with traditional flea markets and city-wide celebrations. This week's update offers practical advice, including public transport tips, to help residents and visitors navigate the Dutch national holiday.

Provincial councillor leaves party and remains absent for months

North Holland provincial representative Maik de Weerdt has been absent from legislative meetings for months since leaving the Volt party to form his own faction in December 2025. Despite missing approximately 15 meetings at the Provincial House in Haarlem, he has continued to receive his monthly allowance of roughly 2,250 euros. De Weerdt recently responded to the controversy by stating he intends to return to his duties next month.

The Greenhouse | Facts once again seem to matter little in the climate debate

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From broken frame to trust: how an e-bike saga ended well

Ron Poppen experienced a spontaneous frame break on his e-bike, later discovering a recall campaign he had not been notified about. He shared his story with the 'Klasse' column to describe how the situation was eventually resolved and his trust was restored.

Tinka parks in Hoofddorp, pays, and is shocked by the costs

A woman named Tinka received financial compensation after filing a formal complaint regarding unexpectedly high parking fees in Hoofddorp. Her experience highlights how a well-structured complaint can lead to a positive financial resolution for consumers.