Zelzate - Belgium
Zelzate, a municipality located in the Belgian province of East Flanders, is a unique blend of natural beauty and industrial presence. With a population of 13,124 as of 2021, this small town spans across 13.71 km², divided into two distinct parts by the Ghent–Terneuzen Canal. The concrete drawbridge and tunnel connecting the two sides add to its charm.
Despite its picturesque setting, Zelzate has historically been known for having some of the lowest air quality in Belgium due to nearby polluting industries. However, significant investments made by companies like ArcelorMittal Ghent (Sidmar) have led to a substantial reduction in emissions – an impressive 90% decrease. This major environmental turnaround not only improves living conditions but also signifies a shift towards sustainability.
The town's layout, with its unique division by the canal, presents both advantages and challenges. On one hand, it offers scenic views and perhaps a sense of separation between residential and industrial areas. On the other hand, it might pose logistical challenges for commuters and residents alike. The B- grade in commute reflects this balance.
Zelzate scores well in Childcare & Education with an A-, indicating that families can find high-quality educational institutions for their children. However, its culture score of B- suggests there might be limited cultural events or activities compared to larger cities, although the town's unique history and environmental challenges could offer a rich narrative for local arts and storytelling.
In terms of health, Zelzate receives a C+ grade, which could be associated with both the past industrial impact on air quality and perhaps less access to healthcare services compared to urban areas. The recent improvements in emissions should have positive long-term effects on public health.
The Noise score of D- is reflective of its industrial legacy, indicating that noise pollution might still be a significant concern for residents. However, as with air quality, efforts towards sustainability could also mitigate noise issues over time.
Overall, Zelzate presents a complex profile – a town that has faced environmental challenges but is actively working towards improvement. Its unique features and the resilience of its community make it an interesting place to live or visit. While there are areas for development in terms of amenities and culture, Zelzate's journey towards becoming a more sustainable and livable municipality is noteworthy.
Zelzate
Country: Belgium
Population: 12699
Area: 13.71 square kilometre
Web: https://www.zelzate.be/