“I do this for myself and for the planet”

Peter lives with his family on Haarlemmerweg, directly adjacent to his beloved Westerpark. In 2012, while walking the dog, he suddenly noticed how much litter was actually in the park and he naturally started picking up all kinds of cups, bottles, and packaging. “This has evolved into an important activity where I like to involve as many people as possible. I do this for myself, for the planet, and because I enjoy it.”It’s Wednesday afternoon. Peter has just finished one of his cleanup actions in Westerpark. Today he handed out thirty grabbers to people who came to help him. Besides sharing all sorts of interesting facts about plastic and recycling, Peter knows how to organize the participants in changing pairs. This way, you have surprising conversations while leaving the park a little cleaner.

Deugmens, lefty loony, know-it-all

Peter is sometimes insulted when he is cleaning up. For example, “Lefty!” is suddenly shouted at him. But overall, he is enthusiastic about climate awareness: “The park is much cleaner now than 6-7 years ago. Also, during the climate march this year, many people were picking up trash while demonstrating. We left Amsterdam cleaner,” Peter laughs. Shouldn’t the municipality just do that? “Also,” says Peter, “but we never pay enough taxes to have them do it all themselves.”

Integrity is the highest good

“You often hear it in the news: Fishermen in small boats often throw away broken fishing nets overboard, even though this contributes to the plastic soup in the sea. There are many discussions about this on social media, but I do understand these fishermen to some extent. Working together to find solutions is much more important than being right. I believe it is important to try to see all nuances. This requires taking time for each other.”

Life motto: Rather yes than no

“I think it’s fantastic when people, partly because of me, gain insight that they can change something themselves, can contribute, and consider it normal. Just try it and go for it. Better to try than not to, is also my life motto. If it doesn’t work out, then you’ve learned something again.”

Sustainability is also a form of philosophy

Peter has turned his passion into his profession: he is a freelancesustainability teacherEspecially primary and secondary schools. “Sustainability also has to do with meaning, connection, and love for yourself and your environment. Even though the assignments for environmental lessons may sometimes be overwhelming, my dream is to eventually secure a permanent job in this field.”Interview: Thecla Groot Koerkamp
Photos: Huub Zeeman

Are you excited?

Lookhereif you also want to help clean up the Westerpark.
Other volunteer opportunities (around 1500, throughout Amsterdam)You are here.