In 2011 the Flemish government developed a new legislation concerning the prevention of hearing damage. The government wanted to reduce the amount of decibels people are exposed to when visiting parties, concerts, youth clubs, cafés, etc. by introducing 3 categories with a maximum of 100 dB in the highest category. As shown above, a simple drumkit easily exceeds this limit.

Without the huge correction Formaat fought for, this new legislation would have had big consequences for the survival of the youth clubs. The new regulations would have had tough consequences for the many young volunteers (extra administration overload etc.) and for all youth club finances. A lot of youth clubs could be threatened to close down, as they wouldn't be able to organise parties and concerts anymore without risking a big fine or even a trial!

Formaat immediately took action and started a big lobby campaign. They organised a Facebook-petition with app. 7500 signatures, a campaign in youth clubs and a lot of meetings with partner organisations, experts and politicians in an attempt to open the debate and try to force some necessary adjustments.

Formaat was succesful in negotiating with ministers and their cabinets, although the new regulation will still be challenging for some of the youth clubs in Flanders. Still, Formaat managed to persuade the government to make several key adjustments in favour of youth clubs. Formaat would want to say a special thanks for everyone's support to take action!