Minister insists nitrogen law must pass this year

Denmark’s minister for nature and animal welfare is standing by plans for a new fertiliser law despite criticism from farmers, mayors and the governing parties, DR reports. Christian Rabjerg Madsen says the law must be adopted this year so nitrogen reductions can begin in 2027.

“For many years, we have overdrawn our account with the aquatic environment, with massive oxygen depletion as a result. We cannot continue doing that,” Madsen said.

The new law is intended to significantly reduce nitrogen emissions and help restore marine life in fjords and inland waters. The minister took responsibility for the green tripartite agreement after his party colleague Jeppe Bruus.

Farmers’ organisations have criticised the proposal, several mayors have voiced strong objections, and Venstre, one of the parties behind the agreement, has been unable to find a common position.

Madsen spent Friday morning meeting representatives of 23 local green tripartite bodies to discuss the challenges. In several parts of the country, agricultural associations have paused their work on the agreement.

Asked whether the government had put too much pressure on the farming sector, Madsen said he would continue the dialogue with farmers.

“We have agreed in the green tripartite that nitrogen will be regulated in 2027 and that we must reduce the amount reaching our fjords and inland waters. That is the basis on which I will cooperate with agriculture,” he said.

The new nitrogen regulation model includes 1.23 billion kroner in compensation intended to reduce farmers’ losses. According to the ministry, the model will eliminate two thirds of the emissions that need to be removed to restore healthy life beneath the surface of the sea.

Vegetable producers appear likely to be particularly affected by the new rules. Madsen said he was willing to consider whether the legislation should be designed differently for them.