Tielt (Brussels Morning Newspaper) – Once again, the town of Tielt in the province of West Flanders, Belgium, has managed to shine a light on an ongoing nuisance which has been annoying its inhabitants for some time now – the bad smell coming from green bins containing organic waste (GFT). It is noted by local officials that this nuisance seems to have grown into a bigger problem during summer months, when complaints about odors, flies, and maggots became more prevalent.
What are residents experiencing across Tielt neighborhoods?
In different neighborhoods of Tielt, people complained about the foul smell coming out of GFT bins, especially during summertime because of the hot weather which makes the organic waste decompose. People describe the smell as sickening, so much so that it makes it impossible for them to open their windows and enjoy their gardens. Along with the bad smell, people are facing swarms of flies along with maggots in the bins, making it not only a health hazard but also embarrassing.
How has the city of Tielt responded to the complaints?
The Tielt city council has already made it clear how seriously they take the matter and stressed on the necessity to find a structural solution. During recent council meetings, it was stressed that apart from individual measures taken by citizens to minimize odors, it is necessary to take some other steps. The city authorities are now negotiating with the local IVIO to discuss various possibilities, including more cleaning cycles, increased collection frequency, etc.
“We understand the frustration of our residents and are committed to finding a lasting solution,”
said a Tielt municipal spokesperson, underscoring the administration’s willingness to collaborate with all stakeholders.
What role does IVIO play in addressing the issue?
IVIO, the inter-municipal company dealing with garbage disposal in the area, has stated that the demands for GFT containers and cleaning services increase during the summer period. The company has also said that despite their efforts to ensure that waste disposal is conducted according to schedule, there have been instances when some delays were experienced in providing smaller containers owing to very high demands. IVIO has advised the locals to practice proper waste segregation and maintenance of their bins.
“Proper use and regular cleaning of GFT bins can significantly reduce unpleasant smells,”
an IVIO representative stated, adding that the company is open to exploring additional measures in consultation with the city.
Why do GFT containers smell more in summer?
Mainly, the cause of increased odor during warm weather can be attributed to decomposition. As stated earlier, organic matter, which includes leftovers and other waste materials, decomposes much faster when exposed to moisture and warmth. Decomposition results in the production of volatile organic compounds, which contribute to the foul odor. Moreover, when wet foods are disposed of without being drained of any liquids and using plastic bags within the GFT bin, the situation is aggravated.
“Heat and moisture create the perfect environment for bacteria and pests,”
explained a waste management expert, highlighting the importance of proper waste preparation.
Have similar incidents occurred elsewhere in Belgium and beyond?
Smelly waste containers are a problem not only for Tielt but also other cities in Belgium and even abroad. In the Belgian municipality of Knokke-Heist, residents have been demonstrating against the use of underground waste containers on the renovated Oosthoekplein due to smell and noise pollution. At the same time, in Delfgauw, Netherlands, residents have been experiencing the unpleasant smell and flies from the GFT waste containers during eight years already, calling the problem a persistent one. Additionally, in July 2026, there was an unfortunate case when the man who was only 51 years old died from an accident while cleaning a GFT waste container in Ravels, Belgium.
