Heerlen residents urged to swap tiles for greenery in national competition
Heerlen is calling on residents to replace tiles with greenery to combat urban heat and improve livability. Participants can win free plants and use a tile taxi service, while helping the city climb the national rankings in this eco-friendly challenge.
| Key Data | Details |
|---|---|
| Event | National Tile Removal Championship 2026 |
| Location | Heerlen, Limburg |
| Registration Deadline | April 23, 2026 (spring round) |
| Tile Removal Area | 4–12 square metres |
| Incentives | Free tile taxi service, free plants |
| Last Year’s Rank | 6th place nationwide |
| Contact | tegelwippen@heerlen.nl |
| Websites | Operatie Steenbreek, NK Tegelwippen |
The municipality of Heerlen plays a key role in promoting sustainable urban development by encouraging residents to replace tiles with greenery. This initiative aligns with broader environmental goals, such as reducing heat stress and improving water absorption in urban areas.
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Read the full translated article below
Tiles out, greenery in!
Heerlen is participating again this year in the National Tile Removal Championship. The municipality is calling on residents, schools, organizations, or businesses to join in. Last year, Heerlen ranked a commendable 6th place nationwide. Can we surpass that together?
Why is removing tiles so important?
Greenery makes a neighbourhood more liveable. Tiles block rainwater and absorb heat, which is why cities are getting warmer. Trees and plants create a cooler environment, purify the air, better absorb heavy rainfall, and contribute to biodiversity.
Need help with greening?
Would you also like to participate in greening efforts? Make your (tiled) garden greener? Or create a front garden? If you want to remove 4 to 12 square metres of tiles or gravel, you can use a free tile taxi service and receive free plants from the municipality. Even if you don’t want (free) plants, you can still use the free tile taxi service.
How do you do it?
- To receive free plants, register before April 23 with Operatie Steenbreek for the spring round. (There will also be an autumn round.)
- Report the number of tiles removed on the NK Tegelwippen website.
- Do you (also) need the tile taxi? Then send an email to tegelwippen@heerlen.nl.