Hundreds of farms suddenly illegal due to new interpretation of nitrogen rules

A new ruling by the Council of State is turning Dutch businesses upside down. Hundreds of entrepreneurs who have modified or expanded their businesses are now suddenly operating without valid permits. From farms to Schiphol Airport, no one is escaping the dance. Six questions.

The Council of State issued a ruling just before Christmas that has major implications for Dutch entrepreneurs. Due to a new interpretation of the nitrogen rules, many permits granted since 2020 are suddenly invalid. This affects not only farmers, but also construction projects, industry and infrastructure. The cabinet is now coming up with a special ministerial commission to address the problems.

What exactly is going on? Who are affected? And what steps can the Cabinet take to solve the problem? Six questions about this new chapter in the nitrogen file.