Environment/sustainability

Demand for air conditioners has jumped as the Netherlands experiences tropical temperatures. Installers report a sharp rise in requests, and the number of systems in Dutch homes continues to grow. By year-end, up to 2.5 million units are expected to be in place nationwide.

The Dutch government is keeping its options open to build two new nuclear power stations at either Eemshaven in Groningen or Terneuzen in Zeeland, presenting a difficult dilemma for ministers ahead of a final decision later this year. While national grid operator TenneT explicitly backs Eemshaven as the technically optimal choice, the region is fiercely opposed to nuclear energy following years of gas extraction damage, whereas Terneuzen boasts strong public support but would require massive, expensive upgrades to the local electrical grid.

Next week will see widespread strikes across the Netherlands as cleaners and metal workers join public transport staff to protest against government spending cuts. Organised by trade unions, the industrial action targets planned reductions to state pensions (AOW), unemployment benefits (WW), and disability support (WIA). The disruptions will include a total halt to morning train services and a 24-hour cleaners' strike on Wednesday, followed by a full-day walkout by regional metal workers on Friday, as unions demand that the government permanently drop the cuts.

Forecasters have added to an existing yellow heat warning with an alert for severe thunderstorms and large hail across the country this Friday afternoon. While the heatwave triggers the RIVM’s National Heat Plan everywhere except the Wadden Islands, the KNMI has warned that the breaking weather could bring sudden wind gusts and hail up to 4 centimetres in diameter, following a night of heavy downpours in the south.

The RIVM has revealed that reducing fine particulate matter and nitrogen dioxide emissions will generate greater health gains by 2030 than previously forecast. While current policies are on track to meet domestic targets, several industrial and high-traffic zones still fall short of upcoming European air quality requirements. Regional authorities must now introduce targeted local measures around major ports, airports, and motorways to bridge the compliance gap.

Warm, tropical weather is set to arrive from Thursday, bringing rising temperatures and humid conditions. Friday is expected to be the hottest day, with a chance of thunderstorms and uncomfortable nights. The heat will ease slightly over the weekend.

Food waste in the Netherlands has declined sharply, with households throwing away far less than a decade ago. While progress is clear, experts warn more effort is needed to meet the 2030 target. The figures also highlight both environmental and financial benefits of wasting less food.

Dutch farmers and growers saw their product prices drop by over 10% in the first quarter of the year compared to last year, driven by a 40% plunge in potato prices due to a bumper harvest and falling global demand for chips. According to Statistics Netherlands (CBS), prices for milk, eggs, fruit, and grains also fell significantly, even as production costs for fertilisers and veterinary fees rose. Although energy costs were initially lower during the quarter, the farming group LTO warned that the subsequent outbreak of war involving Iran has since sent global fuel prices soaring, prompting calls for government support to prevent rising costs from hitting food affordability.