Greenhouse gas emissions in the Netherlands were slightly higher in the second quarter of 2026 than a year earlier, according to preliminary figures from Statistics Netherlands (CBS) and the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM).
The Netherlands emitted 31.6 megatonnes of greenhouse gases during the second quarter. One megatonne equals one billion kilograms. Carbon dioxide (CO2) accounts for most greenhouse gas emissions, while gases such as methane make up the remainder. In the same period of 2025, emissions totalled 31.4 megatonnes.
In the first quarter of 2026, emissions fell by 5% compared with a year earlier. The electricity sector reduced emissions by using less coal and generating more wind power. However, electricity producers used more coal and natural gas in the second quarter, making the sector the main contributor to the increase in emissions.
Agriculture
Only the agricultural and mobility sectors recorded lower emissions. Transport emissions saw the largest decline, with the mobility sector emitting nearly 10% fewer greenhouse gases in April, May and June.
According to CBS, the reduction was mainly linked to a cut in fuel excise duties in Germany, introduced to offset rising diesel prices. This made it more attractive for international freight operators to refuel across the border. Under United Nations guidelines, the resulting emissions are counted as German emissions rather than Dutch emissions.
Earlier this year, CBS reported that total greenhouse gas emissions in 2025 rose slightly from the previous year, reaching 145.6 megatonnes. As a result, the Netherlands moved further away from its 2030 climate target of limiting annual emissions to 102 megatonnes.
@anp | NEWS BRAINPORT
