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Netherlands Reclaims Nitrogen Allowances
North Brabant reclaims unused nitrogen allowances from farms and industries to protect Natura 2000 areas, impacting companies like Shell and Attero.
Dutch
Netherlands
European UnionLabour MarketNetherlandsEnvironmentPollutionRegulationsIndustryNitrogen
ShellAtteroRweNos NieuwsBn Destem
Saskia Boelema
- Why is this measure necessary?
- The measure is necessary because the province has many protected Natura 2000 areas suffering from nitrogen deposition, and current regulations prohibit the degradation of these areas. This is impacting the issuance of permits for new projects.
- Which types of companies are targeted by this initiative?
- The initiative targets the top ten industrial nitrogen emitters in the province. Companies such as Shell's Moerdijk chemical plant, Attero waste processor, and RWE's Amercentrale power plant are among those affected.
- What action is the province of Noord-Brabant taking regarding nitrogen allowances?
- The Dutch province of Noord-Brabant is reclaiming unused nitrogen allowances from farms and industrial companies. This is to prevent further nitrogen emissions and help protect vulnerable Natura 2000 areas.
- What is the broader context of this decision, regarding permitting and environmental regulations?
- Noord-Brabant has not issued permits for projects leading to increased nitrogen emissions in Natura 2000 areas since March 2022 due to the degradation of the natural environment. The province is attempting to restore these areas to comply with environmental regulations.
- When will the province begin reclaiming unused allowances, and what will happen to those who do not use them?
- The province will begin reclaiming unused allowances on July 1, 2026. Farmers and companies with existing permits have until then to utilize them; otherwise, the allowances will be revoked.