Dutch nitrogen lock could end within months
Ruud Paap, green gas expert at New Energy Coalition on how fermentation and manure processing can provide a direct solution to the nitrogen problem in the Netherlands.
The nitrogen problem has the Netherlands in an iron grip, and everyone is affected. The solution isn't found by following goat paths, but by tackling the problem head-on. Nature in the Netherlands receives too much nitrogen, and a large portion of that comes from manure. Nitrogen emissions from manure can be almost halved through a combination of barn modifications, anaerobic digestion, and post-treatment. By applying this approach to manure released near nature reserves, the Netherlands can break free of the nitrogen lock within a few months.
If legislation is an obstacle to solving the nitrogen problem, you need a government with courage
- Ruud Paap, green gas expert at New Energy Coalition
The Netherlands is in lockdown. After years of ignoring the nitrogen problem, The Hague can no longer ignore it. Nature is suffering so much under the nitrogen blanket we emit that any new activity with nitrogen emissions is no longer permitted. This is a major burden for all of us, as it means, among other things, no additional business activity, no new housing, and no new infrastructure.
The annoying thing is that even activities that solve the problem don't get a permit. This is because, before they solve the problem, they emit a small amount of nitrogen during the construction phase, which isn't allowed. Reducing livestock numbers is possible, but as long as it's not accompanied by reduced meat and dairy consumption, it's not a solution; it's just shifting the problem.
A livestock farmer can make adjustments to their barn to prevent manure from releasing nitrogen, but a permit is required. The same applies to a digester that produces green gas or a post-treatment system that allows the farmer to produce their own fertilizer from manure. These techniques are not new and are already in use at several locations in the Netherlands.
By specifically treating manure near Natura 2000 areas, nitrogen emissions in those areas are drastically reduced, nature can return to its normal course, and the Netherlands can be unlocked. As a welcome side effect, greenhouse gas emissions are also prevented, sustainable energy is generated, and the barn environment is improved. All that's needed is a government willing to issue permits and demonstrate some creativity and flexibility in doing so.
Letting this problem simmer is not an option because the housing shortage, the energy transition and all other challenges we face cannot be postponed.
