The Dutch economy is becoming increasingly greener

The Dutch economy has become increasingly greener. Companies are making their production processes greener and raw material consumption has decreased. However, environmental quality and biodiversity have decreased. This is evident from figures that can be found in Green Growth, a publication of CBS. This report evaluates environmental indicators in the period 2000–2016. Statistics Netherlands states that the environmental efficiency of the Dutch economy has improved. Particulate matter emissions fell by 41 percent between 2000 and 2016, despite the economy growing by 21 percent during that period. Waste production also decreased. According to the authors of the report, the reductions in particulate matter emissions can be attributed to various regulations at domestic and European level. As a result, the industry has made production adjustments and filters have been installed. The automotive industry must also meet stricter emission standards.

Policy instruments

The government is using a number of policy instruments to boost green growth. This includes environmental taxes, environmental subsidies and environmental regulations. The environmental subsidies provided by the government have remained stable between 2000 and 2015, with the exception of the subsidy scheme for renewable energy (SDE). SDE expenditure increased fivefold between 2011 and 2016.