SaalePUTZ 2026: Jena calls for major spring cleanup along the riverbanks

Jena. When the first days of spring draw people back to the banks of the Saale, it often becomes visible what winter has left behind: debris and plastic waste in nature. To counteract this, the Bürgerstiftung Jena is once again calling for the traditional “SaalePUTZ” this year. On Saturday, March 21, 2026, all residents of Jena are invited to work together for a clean cityscape.

A Sign for Environmental Protection

In recent years, the action day has become a fixed event in the Jena calendar. Last year, over 500 volunteers participated in the cleanup. The goal is to clear the banks of the Saale and adjacent green spaces of trash before the vegetation period fully begins and the thicket makes access difficult.

The event is aimed at all age groups and sections of the population. This year, students from the Friedrich-Schiller-Universität Jena are also particularly encouraged to participate. Whether as individuals, in groups of friends, or organized as university groups – every helping hand is needed. The university supports the call and sees it as an excellent opportunity for students to actively engage in the city community and make a visible contribution to nature conservation right on their doorstep.

Procedure and Registration

The event kicks off on March 21 at 9 AM. Participants will be active at various operation sites along the river. In addition to the obvious benefit of waste removal, the day also serves to raise awareness for topics such as waste avoidance and the protection of local ecosystems. As the lifeline of Jena, the Saale is not only a local recreation area but also a habitat for numerous animal and plant species that suffer from pollution.

Prior registration is required for participation. This facilitates the organizers’ planning of the operation areas and the distribution of necessary equipment. Interested parties can register via the website of the Bürgerstiftung Jena. Detailed information on meeting points and the exact schedule of the day can also be found there.

Focus on Community Experience

In addition to the work, the focus of SaalePUTZ is also on togetherness. Such actions strengthen the “we-feeling” in the city and show that environmental protection is a community task. Those who participate not only ensure cleanliness but also send a strong signal for civic engagement in Jena.

We wish all participants much success and good weather for the action day.

Source:

SaalePUTZ: Together for a clean city

Transparency Note: This article was created automatically, editorially reviewed, and expanded with AI support.

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