Commission approves EUR 715 million State aid to permanently reduce ammonia emissions affecting Natura 2000 areas in the Netherlands
Natura 2000 is a coordinated network of nature protection areas across the European Union, which aim is to halt biodiversity loss by protecting endangered species, rare habitats, and ecosystems.
Ammonia emissions result in nitrogen deposition on overburdened Natura 2000 areas in the Netherlands. This scheme facilitates the voluntary definitive and irrevocable closure of livestock farming sites that cause these emissions.
The aid scheme will be open to micro, small and medium-sized livestock farmers of dairy cattle, turkeys, chickens and pigs, as well as veal calves, dairy goats, rabbits, meat ducks and other cattle. The scheme prioritises livestock farming sites located partially or entirely within an overburdened Natura 2000 area or within a 1,000-metre range of such an area. Under the scheme, the aid will take the form of direct grants in the range of 100 – 110% of the eligible costs. The scheme will run for five years.
The European Commission assessed the scheme under Article 107(3)(c) TFEU and the 2022 Guidelines for State aid in the agricultural and forestry sectors and in rural areas. It found that it was necessary and appropriate to improve the environment and nature quality. In addition, it found that the scheme is proportionate and will have a limited impact on competition and trade between Member States.
The decision will be made available under the case number SA.122041 in the State aid register.
For more information, see the Commission’s PR.