Nitrogen pollution caused Netherlands $17.2 billion in damage, says confidential government report 

Unchecked nitrogen pollution caused an estimated €14.6 billion in damage to the Dutch economy in 2024, according to a confidential government report obtained by RTL. The study, commissioned by the Ministries of Agriculture, Economic Affairs and Finance, quantifies the impact of nitrogen emissions on public health and the natural environment, amounting to 1.6 percent of the Netherlands’ gross domestic product.

The research, conducted by SEO and CE Delft, is the first to provide a comprehensive cost assessment of nitrogen-related degradation of air, water and soil. According to the report, nitrogen pollution leads to higher levels of fine particulate matter in the air and nitrate in water sources—pollutants associated with respiratory and cardiovascular illnesses and a decline in biodiversity.

The financial burden extends beyond environmental and health impacts. The report estimates that the cumulative economic losses from project delays—particularly in construction, housing and infrastructure—could reach €30 billion between 2024 and 2030. However, researchers warn that the broader societal costs may ultimately exceed this figure.

Despite the findings, the government’s response has been limited. The outgoing cabinet formed a nitrogen commission in January but has so far introduced only a preliminary package of modest measures targeting agriculture, transport and industry. A more comprehensive policy framework is expected later in the year, once the report is officially included in policy planning.

The report’s release has triggered internal political disputes. Agriculture Minister Femke Wiersma (BBB), one of the commissioning officials, refused to co-sign the accompanying letter to parliament, reportedly objecting to the report’s portrayal of the impact on farmers. The letter was ultimately signed solely by Economic Affairs Minister Micky Karremans (VVD).

Members of parliament have expressed frustration at the lack of decisive action. Laura Bromet of GroenLinks-PvdA called on the government to address the country’s large livestock sector, stating that such clarity is essential for farmers’ future planning. NSC’s Harm Holman criticized successive governments for delaying reform. “It’s been more than thirty years of discussion,” he said. “It is high time decisions are made.”

Source: NL Times