🕰️ In the Middle Ages, the streets of Paris were littered with waste, excrement, and stagnant water. Despite laws requiring residents to sweep in front of their homes and build latrines, enforcement was minimal. Early sewers emptied directly into the Seine, which was also a source of drinking water.
🏛️ During the 17th and 18th centuries, street cleaning became a profession, supported by taxes on waste collection. Yet, Paris remained dirty, and complaints were widespread.
🚧 In the 19th century, Haussmann’s urban reforms were a game-changer. A modern sewer system was developed, along with significant sanitary improvements. However, the 1832 cholera outbreak exposed glaring inadequacies.
🗑️ In 1884, Prefect Eugène Poubelle revolutionized waste collection by requiring garbage to be placed in designated bins—later named after him! While this marked progress, the cleanliness of Paris remains a point of contention today.
🌍 What if everyone did their part? Cigarette butts, cans, and dog waste still too often end up on the sidewalks. A small individual effort could make a big difference in preserving Paris’s charm.
📞 Are you an expat looking to better understand local customs or make your move to Paris smoother? Contact us today for personalized support in your integration and to discover all that France has to offer!