Nitrogen law falls short for farmers but may help housebuilding

The Dutch cabinet has unveiled its new nitrogen law, drawing mixed reactions from farmers, builders, and environmentalists. Agriculture minister Jaimi van Essen unveiled the law, an update to a plan announced in June, on Tuesday. The law aims to reduce nitrogen emissions from agriculture and transport by 42-46% and 50% respectively by 2035, compared to 2019 levels.

Nitrogen pollution from manure and exhaust is harming the environment, leading to court challenges on building permits during the housing shortage. Provinces have until September 2028 to establish strict zones around sensitive nature areas, where the cow density will be capped at 1.5 per hectare. The government has allocated €9 billion to assist impacted farmers.

However, farmers' association LTO sees the new law as "less bad on important points" but maintains fundamental objections, particularly over the required emission cuts. Van Essen rejected an alternative plan proposed by farmers groups last month. The law will grant builders "room to construct homes and roads again," according to Bouwend Nederland, the construction industry body.

Greenpeace criticized the government for ignoring a 2025 court ruling they won against the state. The minority cabinet requires votes from opposition parties to pass the legislation. The center-left alliance Pro has approved the plan so far.