Court of Auditors report on Dutch peatland areas

◆3 sources

The Netherlands Court of Audit reported that nature targets for peatland areas are not being met. Of the 173 areas examined, only 18 were in sufficient condition, despite €2 billion being allocated between 2021 and 2030 to strengthen them.

The court identified dehydration, poor water quality, nitrogen and invasive species as threats. It said measures within the areas alone are insufficient and that surrounding buffer zones are needed, but responsibilities there are divided among provinces, municipalities, water boards, the national government and private parties. Conflicting interests, including agriculture, recreation, housing and road construction, add pressure and fragment the areas. The court said the nature minister has played a limited role and warned that peatland and other nature objectives are at risk without stronger action.

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