The Midden-Nederland court has urged the Dutch government to develop a sustainable solution for the nitrogen problem after five and a half years. The court’s statement was made during a case involving a dairy farm in Zeist, whose owner has been attempting to expand with a chicken barn.
The farmer obtained permits from the province twice, both of which were nullified after environmental organizations challenged them in court. The court acknowledged the farmer’s frustration, emphasizing the challenges faced when relying on government policies.
The reference to five and a half years pertains to a 2019 Council of State ruling blocking the expansion of ten intensive livestock farms due to potential nitrogen-related damage to nearby nature reserves. This decision has resulted in significant economic issues, affecting even housing and road construction permits, which are now only granted if no environmental degradation is confirmed.
The previous government allocated 24 billion euros to address the issue, allowing provinces to set their environmental goals, including nitrogen reduction. The current coalition, however, reduced this budget to 5 billion euros.
Agriculture Minister Wiersma (BBB) plans to use this funding for innovations like new barn systems and emission measurement methods. Experts have cautioned that these solutions may not be as effective as anticipated.
Wiersma presented her plan two weeks ago, but the parliament found it lacking in detail and seeks further clarification in the coming months.
Source: NOS