Project ‘Meerkoet Minder Afval’ integrates urban wildlife into the waste collection cycle by leveraging the nesting behavior of coots (meerkoeten). These resourceful birds repurpose discarded materials to build their nests in urban environments—a behavior shaped by environmental change. This project transforms their adaptive behavior into a collaborative process between humans and coots.
Specially designed nesting platforms are installed in urban areas. Coots then collect waste materials to construct their nests on these platforms. After the breeding season, these nests will be carefully dismantled, with the gathered waste sorted and recycled. Through this process, coots become active participants in urban waste management, turning their adaptive behaviors into a valuable ecological service.
The Coot (meerkoet) collects trash to build their nest
By exploring how design interventions can guide and amplify this human-animal collaboration, the project establishes a circular system where coots contribute to urban waste collection while benefiting from safer nesting opportunities.
Natural Partnership in Urban Waste Management
