Nitrogen emissions crisis threatens one in five Dutch businesses
Dutch businesses are feeling increasing pressure from the nitrogen crisis, with nearly one in five companies warning that their survival is at risk, according to a new survey. About 3 percent of businesses fear they could go bankrupt in the near future, according to AD.
The survey, conducted by Right Marktonderzoek for the employers’ organization VNO-NCW, collected responses from 655 companies, roughly half of them in Gelderland. Results show that almost a quarter of enterprises are currently experiencing direct or indirect problems caused by nitrogen-related regulations, and 21 percent expect to face serious difficulties soon.
Companies report facing restrictions from newly implemented zero-emission zones, requiring them to replace vehicles with cleaner alternatives. Projects are reportedly frequently delayed or halted because of nitrogen rules, and firms must comply with stricter environmental regulations, increasing both costs and operational effort.
Investment decisions are also affected. The survey indicates that 42 percent of businesses are postponing planned investments due to policy uncertainty, while a third report spending additional money to meet nitrogen requirements.
Unclear regulations and political indecision are cited by businesses as their main concerns. According to the survey, “decision-making takes far too long and too often goes in all directions.” Chris Lorist, project manager at VNO-NCW Midden, told AD, “We have more often had no real government than a real one over the past ten years. That is certainly also a cause of the problem.”
VNO-NCW expressed alarm at how many companies are now at risk. “Even more than during the coronavirus crisis, this is really serious. It is five past twelve, as this survey clearly shows,” Lorist told the newspaper. “We already see declining demand everywhere, not just in construction companies waiting for permits. Many businesses will inevitably fail in the coming period.”
The organization is pressing for fast, concrete solutions. Discussions are reportedly ongoing with Gelderland authorities to explore accelerated measures. Lorist said, “Some farmers have indicated they want to stop, but they are waiting for a buyout program. With the province, the farmer, and developers, agreements could already be made about how to use the land that becomes available, for example, for housing projects.”
VNO-NCW also called for swift action regarding Natura 2000 protected areas in Gelderland. The province plans to establish zones in vulnerable areas on the Veluwe and near Winterswijk where nitrogen emissions must be sharply reduced, freeing up emissions capacity elsewhere.
Another pressing issue is the expansion of the electricity grid, which is also linked to nitrogen emissions. “Some businesses cannot switch to electric company vehicles because there are no charging stations, and housing projects are also stalled. It is frustrating for everyone,” Lorist told the newspaper.
