Westland residents swap tiles for greenery in climate-friendly garden initiative
Residents of Westland exchanged nearly 1,500 tiles for plants and peat-free soil, kickstarting a local effort to create greener, climate-resilient gardens. The initiative helps reduce heat, absorb rainwater, and support biodiversity—while offering rewards like rain barrels.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Tiles collected | Nearly 1,500 |
| First collection location | Boers Garden Centre |
| Next collection date | March 28, 2026 |
| Next collection location | Intratuin ’s-Gravenzande |
| Reward for participation | Plants, peat-free soil, rain barrel prizes |
| Discount on rain barrels | €25 |
| Province | Zuid-Holland |
The Municipality of Westland organizes initiatives like the Dutch Tiling Competition to encourage sustainable gardening practices. By incentivizing residents to replace tiles with greenery, the local government supports climate adaptation and biodiversity efforts.
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Nearly 1,500 tiles handed in during first collection day
The Municipality of Westland got off to a strong start at the Dutch Tiling Competition. During the first tile collection day at Boers Garden Centre, residents handed in nearly 1,500 tiles in exchange for plants and peat-free garden soil. This officially marks the start of the tiling season in Westland.
There are multiple benefits to replacing tiles with plants. Greenery helps absorb rainwater more effectively, provides cooling on hot days, and creates more space for flowers, insects, and other animals. In doing so, residents not only make their gardens more beautiful but also more climate-friendly.
Missed the first collection day? The next tile collection day will be on Saturday, March 28, at Intratuin ’s-Gravenzande. Residents can hand in their removed tiles there in exchange for plants.
Win a rain barrel at the Green Climate Square
In March, the Green Climate Square will focus on the theme “Water: Capture and reuse.” Visitors to participating garden centres this month can win a rain barrel. There is a scavenger hunt along various water collectors in the garden centre, as well as a photo contest where participants stand a chance to win a rain barrel. There is also an attractive discount for those looking to purchase a rain barrel themselves.
A rain barrel allows you to collect rainwater that can be used later during drier periods, for example, to water plants. This saves drinking water and prevents rainwater from flowing directly into the sewer system.
Inspiration for a greener garden
At the Green Climate Square, visitors can find practical tips, activities, and offers to make their gardens and surroundings greener. In addition to inspiration, visitors in March receive a €25 discount on a rain barrel and can participate in the scavenger hunt and prize draw.