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Reviving Urban Nature: Successful Cleanup of “Podpolkovnik Vasil Zlatarev” Street

On November 16, 2024, the SURYA Foundation, with the support of the Iskar District of Sofia Municipality and a group of dedicated volunteers, successfully carried out a large-scale cleanup campaign on one of the most critically polluted areas in Sofia – “Podpolkovnik Vasil Zlatarev” Street in Druzhba neighborhood.

What did we achieve?

From the 3-kilometer stretch that had turned into an illegal dumping ground for construction debris and car tires, we managed to clean 500 meters in just one day. The results are impressive:
● 130 tons of construction waste were removed.
● 8,000 cubic meters of discarded wood materials were collected and cleared from the area.
● Tons of car tires were transported for recycling, contributing to reduced pollution and promoting sustainable waste management.

Why is this initiative important?

“Podpolkovnik Vasil Zlatarev” Street had not only become a dumping ground but also posed a threat to the adjacent grove, a valuable part of the urban ecosystem. Through this campaign, we successfully removed the waste, restored the area’s aesthetics, and protected the environment.

Acknowledgments

We extend heartfelt thanks to the volunteers who dedicated their time and effort to bring this initiative to life, as well as to the Iskar District of Sofia Municipality for their assistance and for providing part of the necessary equipment.

What’s next?

In the spring, we will continue the cleanup of the same street, as we are determined to restore it completely. After that, we will shift our efforts to the grove located between the street and the Iskar River. This area is also heavily polluted and requires significant care to be restored as a green space for the community.
If you would like to join future campaigns or support our initiatives, you can follow us on social media and visit our website.