Policy evaluations
Co-impacts of climate policies on air polluting emissions in the Netherlands
Several indicative climate policy packages for 2020 have been found to result in mainly favourable co-impacts on Dutch air quality. The extent of their contribution to air quality does depend on the specific measures in the climate package. This report from the Dutch Policy Research Programme on Air and Climate provides insight into the co-impacts of climate measures on air quality.
Policy research programme on particulate matter. Main results and policy consequences
Recent research has clarified a number of facts about particulate matter in the atmosphere and has overturned a number of assumptions. For example, it is now clear that a much greater proportion of particulate matter is caused by human (anthropogenic) activities than was previously assumed. Measures that focus on reducing anthropogenic emissions are therefore potentially more effective for reducing particulate matter concentrations. However, measurements of PM10 and PM2.5 concentrations – the standard size fractions of particulate matter – have been shown to be less effective than assumed as indicators of local health impact. This applies especially to assessments of measures to control emissions from healthrelevant combustion processes, such as traffic exhaust emissions. Further research must be conducted to determine whether specific components of particulate matter, such as black smoke or elementary carbon, would be more suitable indicators.
Attainability of PM2.5 air quality standards, situation for the Netherlands in a European context
It is likely that the air quality standards for PM2.5 will be met in time under current and proposed national and European policies, assuming average meteorological conditions. In 2015, the Netherlands has to comply with these standards. A very limited number of exceedances of EU limit or target values may occur along busy streets, due to meteorological year-to-year fluctuations.
Transboundary air pollution still too high
In the last 25 years, air pollution in Europe has been substantially reduced. However, current reduction plans are insufficient to fully protect ecosystems and human health. These are the main conclusions of the review of the Gothenburg Protocol by the Task Force Integrated Assessment Modelling, led by Rob Maas (MNP). With the current legislation, health risks due to exposure to particulate matter and ozone will still remain and, almost everywhere in Europe, biodiversity will decrease further due to high levels of nitrogen deposition.
Consequences for the Netherlands of the EU thematic strategy on air pollution
Measures proposed by the European Commission in the thematic strategy would greatly reduce air pollution. However, attainment of the proposed limit values remains difficult for the Netherlands, mainly because the proposed EU source policy is insufficient.
Consequences of EU air quality directives for spatial development plans in various EU countries
The Netherlands has implemented the EU air quality directive in a relatively strict manner in comparison to other EU countries. Failure to achieve air quality limit values can for the highest Dutch court of justice be a reason to reject plans for building plans for new residences, roads and businesses. In other EU countries the contrary seems to be the case, economical interests being the decisive factor.
