Glasgow must clean up all year round and not just for Commonwealth Games

Glasgow residents are calling for year-round cleanliness in the city, not just during major events like the upcoming Commonwealth Games in 2026. While the city is preparing to host the prestigious sporting event, many locals are advocating for consistent upkeep of streets and parks beyond temporary clean-ups for special occasions. Previous events, such as the 2014 Games and COP26 in 2021, prompted intense citywide cleaning efforts, only to witness a rapid return to littered streets once visitors departed.

The GMB union’s cleansing workers have raised concerns about Glasgow facing a waste and litter “emergency,” resulting in a rise in rat populations, notably in Kelvingrove Park. Additionally, the city centre continues to struggle post-pandemic with boarded-up shops and declining foot traffic. Though various factors like Covid-19 restrictions and austerity measures have impacted the city’s maintenance, there is an opportunity for change.

To address these challenges, it is crucial for councils to receive adequate resources and support to provide residents with clean and well-maintained surroundings consistently throughout the year, rather than solely for high-profile events. Glasgow has the chance to adopt a new approach that prioritises ongoing cleanliness and upkeep for the benefit of all its inhabitants.

In other news, the transition from traditional boilers to eco-friendly heat pumps in Scotland is facing delays, partly due to bureaucratic hurdles in the Scottish Government’s funding schemes. While commendable grants and loans of up to £15,000 are available to assist homeowners in adopting greener heating solutions, the process is hindered by complex application procedures and delayed payments to installers, discouraging many from making the switch.

Amid the nation’s efforts to combat climate change, streamlining the process of transitioning to cleaner technologies is essential for achieving environmental goals efficiently. Simplifying access to green initiatives like heat pump installations can not only reduce carbon emissions but also contribute to Scotland’s sustainable future.

In conclusion, maintaining Glasgow’s cleanliness year-round and streamlining eco-friendly initiatives like heat pump installations are crucial steps towards a greener, more sustainable future for both the city and the country at large. By addressing these challenges effectively, Scotland can lead the way in environmental stewardship and community wellbeing.