The Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency indicated that stricter legislation is necessary to achieve the EU’s objective of reducing emissions by 55% compared to 1990 levels. The agency’s latest report suggests that based on current initiatives and proposals, the country is only on track for a 44-52% reduction.
According to the agency’s annual climate and energy report, which was released just ahead of the upcoming COP29 climate conference scheduled for next month in Azerbaijan, more aggressive policies are essential to bring the 2030 targets within reach.
This expected 55% reduction forms a legally binding commitment made by EU member states. The agency’s emission forecast this year is less optimistic than the previous year, which had projected a potential reduction between 46% to 57%.
Recent setbacks in implementing certain initiatives, including delays in offshore wind projects and slow progress in the production of green hydrogen, have contributed to this decline. Political decisions over the past year have also led to lower anticipated reductions, according to the report.
In response, Sophie Hermans, the Dutch minister responsible for climate and green growth, acknowledged the report’s implications, stating that it emphasizes the need for intensive efforts to keep the 2030 climate goals achievable. Hermans expressed her intention to collaborate with fellow ministers to explore alternative solutions shortly.
As a member of the ruling four-party coalition that emerged following the elections last year, which were heavily influenced by Geert Wilders’ anti-immigration Party for Freedom, Hermans highlighted her commitment to addressing various challenges that hinder the Netherlands’ transition toward sustainability.
Opposition leader Frans Timmermans, known for his role in formulating the EU climate strategy when he served as a European commissioner, commented on the report via X, stating that retreating from climate objectives will complicate future solutions and increase costs.
Suzanne Kröge, another opposition politician, voiced concerns on X, critiquing the government for dismantling climate initiatives while the planet’s warming accelerates. She remarked that the findings reflect a troubling trend, indicating that the Netherlands is moving in the wrong direction rather than making progress.