Jaap Venniker is committed to a healthier living environment in the IJmond with the Frisse Wind foundation. To encourage steel manufacturer Tata Steel to go green faster, the foundation is now investigating the possibilities of a mass claim against the steel giant. Is it really necessary to combat pollution in this way? And how does he reconcile his fight against the polluters with his dealing in used cars? NH News asks the foreman five questions.
A conversation between residents of the IJmond and Tata Steel no longer seems an option. Why is it now necessary to file a mass claim?
“From FrisseWind.nu we have said from day one: we will not enter into discussions with Tata. Firstly, because other parties such as the Village Council are already doing this. They also represent our supporters. Secondly, because we represent the interests of a large group residents who feel significantly disadvantaged by the company. We filed a report on behalf of these residents and are now working on the mass claim.”
How has the way of campaigning against Tata Steel’s pollution changed?
“We see tensions increasing. Among local residents and among employees. That makes sense. After all, it is really about something: our health, our night’s sleep, our living pleasure, the jobs of all employees and the future of the company. The uncertainty and lack of clarity continues simply too long and that is annoying for all parties. We therefore make an urgent appeal to politicians and the management: Fix this situation and provide a clear perspective. That stands and falls at the moment with a closing date for coke gas plant 2. “
The Central Works Council of Tata Steel says it finds the tone and content of the criticism of the steel manufacturer incorrect. How do you view this criticism?
“The COR accuses the media and foundations, among others, of using misinformation. That is absolutely unjustified. At FrisseWind.nu we base ourselves on two things: The facts through a variety of scientific reports from, for example, the RIVM and the GGD and the experience of our supporters. When it comes to experience, we have not been taken seriously since day one. Concerned local residents who speak out on social media are given a huge bucket of sludge by employees for this, and the COR and the FNV also show little Empathy.”
“My reproach to Tata Steel is not that steel is produced, but the way in which it is produced.”
It has been reported in other media that, in addition to activities for Frisse Wind, you also trade in second-hand diesel cars. How do you see that combination yourself?
“My company sells second-hand cars, from petrol to electric. I am not more Catholic than the Pope, but as a small entrepreneur I am very committed to sustainable and socially responsible business operations. For example, we have invested heavily in solar panels and we are selling more and more electric But most importantly: as a company we adhere to 1001 rules. My reproach to Tata Steel is not that steel is produced, but the way in which. Tata receives numerous exceptions and then violates them, making the environment sick. I find that so serious that I am committed to it and have stuck my neck out together with others. It is bizarre that I have to answer for this at all. Tata Steel employees have given my company dozens of bad fake reviews on Google. we are accused of spreading untruths when we rely on the scientific facts…”
To what extent does Frisse Wind have confidence in Tata Steel’s greening plans for 2030?
“The plans are uncertain, but it is taking much too long. The coke gas factory 2 must close as soon as possible. That is what we say, but also Greenpeace, Urgenda, the village council of Wijk aan Zee and most political parties. We have no confidence that there will be a reasonable date will come when that factory really closes and no, we don’t think 2030 is reasonable. It is constantly said that we will soon notice the effect of the investments in ‘roadmap+’. That period is constantly being pushed forward, but nothing has changed in the meantime. are only cleaned in Wijk aan Zee, while there is dust in the entire region, depending on where the wind blows it. There is a lot of talk, but there is still no result.”