Diplomats Grilling under the Summer Sun, aiming for Cleanliness on their Journey
In the heart of Cologne, a team of dedicated individuals known as the Grill-Scouts are making a significant impact on the city's parks. For over 15 years, these eco-warriors have been advocating for cleanliness and responsible grilling practices, especially during weekends and public holidays when the parks are bustling with activity.
The Grill-Scouts, led by Vera Drewke, a pescetarian who abstains from meat, are the friendly faces that approach park-goers who are grilling in public spaces. With a casual, non-confrontational manner, they engage in conversations, offering advice on disposal options and distributing rubbish bags to help keep the parks clean.
Last year alone, the Grill-Scouts in Cologne distributed 31,399 rubbish bags and had 5,286 "contacts". Their logo, easily recognisable on bin liners, also facilitates convenient waste collection, making it simpler for visitors to dispose of their barbecue trash responsibly.
The Grill-Scouts' mission is well-received, with overwhelmingly positive reactions from park visitors. Their efforts have been instrumental in reducing littering and smoke nuisance, issues that have become contentious in many German cities.
In Hamburg, for instance, several districts are reportedly checking the observance of rules and imposing high fines for wild grilling. Meanwhile, in Berlin, residents have started a petition demanding a "respectful use" of the grill area in Volkspark Friedrichshain.
Despite the occasional offer to join in eating, the Grill-Scouts rarely accept. Their focus remains on promoting a culture of clean and responsible outdoor grilling. The Grill-Scouts team in Cologne consists of around 25 members, including Vera Drewke, Sabrina Scholtisseck, and Nisa Bagci, who work on behalf of the waste management department.
As the weather heats up, the Grill-Scouts continue their mission, ensuring that Cologne's parks remain clean, green, and a welcoming space for all. Their commitment to the environment and community spirit makes the Grill-Scouts an invaluable asset to the city.
1) Vera Drewke, the leader of the Grill-Scouts, is a pescetarian who focuses on promoting clean and responsible outdoor grilling, aligning her lifestyle with environmental-science principles.
2) The Grill-Scouts' initiative in Cologne has extended beyond parks, as their logo-adorned rubbish bags are now found in the home-and-garden sections of many local stores, facilitating responsible waste disposal even at home.
3) The Grill-Scouts' endeavor to combat climate-change extends beyond Cologne, inspiring other cities like Hamburg and Berlin to implement similar regulations that promote clean outdoor-living spaces, ensuring a healthier environment for all.
