Currently it is uncertain for many projects whether it is still possible to get a nature permit. This often causes long delay or they do not continue at all. This also applies to plans to make it more sustainable, while in the long term they cause less nitrogen emissions. Think of switching to electric trains, residential areas that get rid of gas or farmers who make their stables more sustainable.
EIB: higher nitrogen limit in Wiersma yields 23,000 homes
Femke Wiersma: Current situation is very undesirable
Agriculture minister Femke Wiersma (BBB) believes that this situation is ‘very undesirable’, she reports. “We are currently dealing with the crazy situation that projects that ultimately ensure less nitrogen emissions are in uncertainty whether they can get a permit due to nitrogen restrictions. While these are the projects we need,” said the minister.
“We get stuck in rules that are counterproductive. I want to break through, so that we can continue projects that help the Netherlands ahead. This measure is an important step in that.”
The permit exemption will only apply if this leads to a reduction of 30 percent compared to the already licensed situation. The permit exemption only applies to activities that do not change function, do not grow larger than the existing activity and have no negative consequences for Natura 2000 areas.
During construction temporarily more emissions
According to Wiersma, more emissions may take place during the construction phase, but never more than three years and no more than five times the emissions of the final situation.
A small, temporary increase in nitrogen emissions is therefore permitted, but after the realization phase there must always be a permanent decrease, according to the ‘General Administrative Order’ that was established in the Council of Ministers on Friday and is now offered for internet consultation.