EU Environment Chief Advocates Tech Solutions for Dutch Nitrogen Issue
The Hague, Friday, 11 April 2025.
The new EU Environment Commissioner suggests the Netherlands should adopt technology to tackle nitrogen excess, focusing on results without immediate sanctions.
New Commissioner’s Balanced Approach
During her visit to the Dutch House of Representatives on April 10, 2025, EU Environment Commissioner Jessika Roswall delivered a nuanced message regarding the Netherlands’ ongoing nitrogen challenges. While emphasizing the need for tangible progress, Roswall notably avoided discussion of immediate punitive measures, instead focusing on technological solutions and dialogue [1]. The Commissioner’s stance reflects a broader shift in EU environmental policy, balancing ecological imperatives with practical implementation concerns [2].
Derogation Status and Water Quality
A critical aspect of the discussion centers on the Netherlands’ agricultural derogation status. Roswall confirmed that the country will lose its special permission to apply more manure per hectare than other EU countries starting next year [1]. This decision stems from the Netherlands’ persistent challenges in meeting EU environmental standards, particularly regarding nitrogen, phosphates, and pesticide levels in surface water [1]. The Commissioner emphasized that other EU member states have shown little interest in maintaining the Netherlands’ competitive advantage through continued derogation [1].
Technical Innovation as a Path Forward
The Commission’s approach aligns with broader EU initiatives to accelerate environmental solutions through technological advancement. During recent discussions in Brussels, Roswall emphasized the importance of streamlining environmental assessments while maintaining high environmental standards [3]. This position resonates with Agricultural Commissioner Christophe Hansen’s advocacy for technical innovation as a primary solution to nitrogen issues, rather than focusing solely on livestock reduction [1].
Implementation Timeline and Next Steps
The immediate focus lies on demonstrable progress rather than rigid deadlines. Dutch Agriculture Minister Femke Wiersma (BBB party) plans to submit a formal request to restore the derogation before summer 2025 [1]. This timing coincides with the Commission’s broader environmental initiatives, including the upcoming EU Bioeconomy Strategy set for adoption by the end of 2025 [4], demonstrating the EU’s comprehensive approach to environmental challenges while maintaining economic competitiveness.