90,000 Hamburgers to clean up again from Friday - Hamburg's Litter Campaign Breaks Records with 90,000 Volunteers

Hamburg's annual litter collection campaign, Hamburg räumt auf, has broken records this year with over 90,000 registered participants. For the first time in its 29-year history, the drive has seen such high numbers, drawing in schools, community groups, and individuals across the city.

The campaign launched early with Environmental Senator Katharina Fegebank joining pupils from Wilhelmsburg's neighbourhood school. Despite freezing temperatures and icy conditions, students from class 4c took part in the cleanup efforts. The senator's visit marked the official start of the initiative, which runs until March 1.

Schools are playing a major role this year, making up around 70% of all participating groups. Trash bags and gloves are available for collection at seven designated points across Hamburg. To tackle the challenging winter conditions, heavy machinery—including snowplows—has been brought in to assist volunteers.

The surge in registrations highlights the campaign's growing popularity. Organisers have noted that this year's turnout is the highest since the drive began nearly three decades ago.

The cleanup effort will continue until the end of the month, with thousands expected to take part. Free supplies remain available at pickup locations, and volunteers of all ages are still welcome to join. The campaign's success reflects broad community engagement in keeping Hamburg's streets and green spaces clean.