Tata retains nature permit, but gets less nitrogen space | Inland

“The measures taken at the two coke factories and the new walking oven have reduced nitrogen emissions. This means that the nitrogen space in the nature permit can be set lower and that it benefits nature,” according to the province. The permit will be reviewed and possibly revised in 2026, because according to Tata Steel’s plan, nitrogen emissions will again decrease significantly due to sustainability.

Mobilization for the Environment (MOB) previously asked to cancel Tata Steel’s nature permit altogether. According to the environmental organization, Tata Steel causes damage to nature reserves throughout the Netherlands with its high emissions. MOB also made requests to tighten up the emission of nitrogen oxides and sulfur dioxide.

The Provincial Executive of Noord-Holland agrees with the decision not to completely withdraw the nature permit. The concerned government agencies say that the license that the company received in 2016 was granted on the correct grounds. It is also expected that “due to innovations, nitrogen emissions will fall further in the coming years.” In addition, the provincial government wants Tata Steel to retain sufficient nitrogen space to enable the switch to sustainable production of green steel in the coming years.

Deputy Jeroen Olthof (livability, environment and health) wants to make agreements with Tata Steel this year about a concrete timeline for realizing sustainable steel production. He says that he also wants to create clarity for residents of the IJmond.

Tata Steel has previously indicated that it understands the concerns of people in the area. To reduce the impact on the environment, the company says it has drawn up an extensive program of measures called Roadmap Plus.

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