Nettoyons le Sud: a record citizen mobilization
The 'Nettoyons le Sud' campaign mobilized 25,000 volunteers who collected 85 tons of waste for its 4th edition.
On May 30, the 4th edition of the 'Nettoyons le Sud' campaign mobilized 25,000 volunteers to preserve the biodiversity of the leading region of France.
This major citizen initiative aimed to rid natural, urban, and coastal areas of abandoned waste. Launched in 2023 as part of the Climate Plan of the Région Sud, this collection day is part of the 'Zéro plastique en 2030' strategy initiated in 2017 by President Renaud Muselier.
The campaign brings together local authorities, associations, natural parks, regional agents, and thousands of citizens, from school children to families, united by a single goal: the protection of their environment.
Protecting a threatened biodiversity
The Région Sud, recognized for the exceptional richness of its biodiversity, is also one of the most vulnerable to climate change. Pollution generated by scattered waste, and notably plastics, represents a direct threat to its unique ecosystems, which stretch from the coastline to the mountain ranges.
'Our territory, blessed by the gods, must be preserved and protected,' emphasized François de Canson, vice-president of the Région.
A growing success year after year
'Beyond the visual impact, this waste harms fauna, flora, and public health, often ending its journey in the Mediterranean Sea. Its removal represents a significant economic cost for local authorities. The success of the campaign is growing. The first edition in 2023 had mobilized around 250 partner municipalities and allowed for the collection of 50 tons of waste. In 2025, participation climbed to 400 municipalities, nearly half of the region's municipalities. This year, thanks to the involvement of 25,000 volunteers, 85 tons of waste were collected. We wish to continue and amplify this collective momentum, by reaffirming our commitment to the preservation of our region, zero waste, and our 100% climate regional policy,' stated the mayor of La Londe-les-Maures.
A positive and unifying ecology
Committed from the very first hour, La Londe-les-Maures illustrated this local dynamic. For the City, this action embodies a positive and unifying vision of ecology.
'Protecting our territory is not an option, it is a collective responsibility. We believe in an ecology that unites, not a punitive ecology. A positive, popular, participative ecology,' concluded François de Canson.
Photos Philippe OLIVIER and PRESSE AGENCE.