The District Court of The Hague is set to deliver a verdict today in the nitrogen emissions case brought by Greenpeace against the Dutch government. Greenpeace asserts that the government’s nitrogen policy is inadequate and seeks to compel the government to implement effective measures, which would necessitate significant interventions in agriculture and industry.
During the November hearings, Greenpeace challenged the entire nitrogen policy, likening the case to the Urgenda climate case from a decade ago. Greenpeace argues that excessive nitrogen deposition in protected areas is deteriorating natural habitats and demands adherence to national nitrogen targets.
The state attorney countered that the government is already taking extensive steps to reduce emissions, citing the infeasibility of achieving the most stringent targets. The case comes at a critical time, as recent developments have intensified the nitrogen debate, affecting permit statuses for businesses retroactively.
The court’s decision, expected at 10:00 AM today, may be appealed by either party to the Council of State within six weeks.
Source: NOS