Netherlands' strict nitrogen policy seriously threatens our national Dutch defense plans and commitments to NATO, research institute TNO warned the government in a confidential report seen by De Telegraaf. The White Paper was leaked shortly before the Netherlands is due to host a major NATO summit at which the issue of higher defence spending will feature prominently. Recent legal decisions, TNO said, have rendered it virtually impossible for the military to expand or conduct regular activities at military air bases in the vicinity of Natura 2000-protected areas.
5 months Ago
According to the report, almost every military installation is impacted by the restrictions, stifling training, growth and even equipment upkeep—critical functions that impair military readiness.
Officials Call for Action
Current junior defence minister Gijs Tuinman, a caretaker, called the situation unacceptable and added, 'It would be completely irresponsible if training and developing didn't take place. We have no alternative if we want to ensure our security.
" Tuinman noted defence accounts for just 0.01% to 0.05% of Dutch nitrogen emissions but the same rules apply to permits across the board.
"Permits are just not being granted, even though our emissions are very low," he said, pushing to separate the permit system from stringent nitrogen standards.
Policy Change Seen as Urgent
The Council of State, the country's highest general administrative court, recently refused to allow trading of nitrogen allotments among projects, a ruling that has muddied the permitting process for even routine military operations. TNO's report underlines that if urgent action is not taken, the risk exists that the Netherlands will not meet NATO's new investment and readiness ambitions.
The caretaker cabinet has promised to increase defence spending to 3.5% of GDP and is discussing steps to add to the number of Dutch militaria staff.
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