Annual “Kehrwochen” encourage communities throughout Germany to actively participate in week-long citywide cleanups. Participants, equipped with gloves, grabbers and garbage bags, focus on cleaning green spaces, playgrounds and walkways. ( Thomas Niedermueller /Stuttgart-Marketing GmbH)

Kaiserslautern this week hosts its annual “Lautrer Kehrwoche,” or sweeping week, a citywide cleanup initiative.

It will feature 3,500 participants, including children and adults, taking to the streets armed with gloves grabbers, and garbage bags, according to a statement from city officials. The volunteer effort, running until April 20, aims to tidy up public spaces such as parks, school routes, playgrounds and sidewalks.

The cleanup, now in its sixth year, features 96 groups from various sectors of the community, including 32 kindergartens and 26 school classes. Local businesses, neighborhoods, families and clubs contribute to enhance the city’s appearance and foster community spirit, officials said.

This year’s sweeping week is also part of the broader “Let’s Clean Up Europe” initiative, which strives to raise environmental awareness and promote cleanliness across the continent.

All residents are encouraged to contribute to the community effort by simply carrying a bag during daily activities to collect litter, the statement said.