Authorities Happy That Gas Extraction Under the Wadden Sea Will Not Proceed; A Victory for Nature, Water, and Community

With great relief, the municipality of Noardeast-Fryslân, the province of Fryslân, and Wetterskip Fryslân have taken note of the ministers announcement that no gas will be extracted from Ternaard. Minister Sophie Hermans of Climate and Green Growth announced on Friday in Wierum that she has reached an agreement with NAM. NAM is withdrawing its extraction application and will receive compensation from the State.

An Important Recognition of the Concerns of Our Community

This is stated by Mayor Johannes Kramer of the municipality of Noardeast-Fryslân. “It took a very long time before clarity was achieved. Too long, in our opinion. Furthermore, it has become clear that the current Mining Act is outdated. Economic gain for the State and companies was prioritized, while the residents of the affected area and nature were left behind. It is time for mining legislation that better takes local interests into account.”

Executive board member Remco van Maurik of Wetterskip Fryslân adds: “The water system is vulnerable. This deal acknowledges the adverse effects on dike safety, increasing salinization of the hinterland, and more wetting and drying throughout the system.”

Clarity Comes to a Dossier That Has Been Active Since 2015

It has taken a lot of effort from residents, interest groups, and authorities. Authorities, residents, and social organizations chose a sustainable course. A course in which nature and the livability of the region are central. This outcome confirms that this effort pays off. “It does justice to the call made by our Provincial States and many municipal council factions: no gas extraction under the Wadden Sea. We fought hard together for this, and I am very satisfied with this decision,” says deputy Friso Douwstra of the province of Fryslân.

The Wadden Sea Remains Protected Against the Risks of Gas Extraction

Gas extraction would mean subsidence and damage to the water management and ecosystem for this UNESCO World Heritage site. For the community, this also means a reduction in uncertainty about the future of their living environment.

The Authorities Thank the Community

Respect for their involvement and commitment. The many conversations, consultation moments, and joint actions have shown how strong the community is and how valuable it is to stand up for interests with one voice.

Wadden Region Not Yet Free of Concerns

Although gas extraction under Ternaard is definitively not proceeding, extraction at Blije and Eanjum (also Noardeast-Fryslân) continues. Therefore, many residents still have concerns. In addition to gas extraction, a munitions complex is very likely to be established in this vulnerable area. Alderman Pieter Braaksma makes an urgent appeal to The Hague: “The government should, based on the principle Every Region Counts, better meet the people in the region. The fact that gas extraction is not proceeding is a first step. This also cancels the related regional process, but that should not mean there is no attention for us at all.”