Silent landscapes: farmers in putten fight against stikstof ghosts!

Silent landscapes: farmers in putten fight against stikstof ghosts!

On June 29, 2025, a bike tour through the village of putting shows shocking changes in the agricultural landscape. Many veal stalls and pig farms are empty, which indicates possible operating closures. Five agricultural agents between Hoge Engweg and Huinerkerkpad may have given up, possibly due to coercion or space requirements for the southern bypass under construction. Such developments raise questions about the future of the rural structure. In this context, the Stikstofhandel could gain in importance, which increases the economic potential for the region. According to the reports of Deputtenaer are energy companies, the largest CO2 emitters.

An essential part of the electricity that is generated in putten is exported, mainly to Germany and Belgium. While agriculture and the mobility sector have relatively low CO2 emissions according to the CBS and RIVM, they are still under considerable pressure from experts and natural activists who criticize that the farmers play a key role in the STIKSTOF problem.

emissions of agriculture

The debate about emissions is not new. An article by CBS describes the development of emissions in agriculture. Between 1995 and 2021, total emissions dropped by 17%, while production increased by 20%. The emissions of laughing gas in particular reduced by 44%, while that of methane decreased by 10%. The fact that agriculture was able to develop at the same time is a positive aspect that also remains associated with a constant challenge.

The emission sources are diverse: 32% of emissions come from the fermentation of cattle husbandry, and 14% result from the storage of crap. It is also reported that agriculture is responsible for 19% of PM10 emissions in the Netherlands, while the PM2.5 emissions remain low.

social relevance and environmental protection

An increased stiking load also has health effects, such as an increase in hooikoorts (hay fever) in the population. In this context, the residents discuss the role of the outdoor area in terms of a stiking problem, energy transition, climate adjustment and defense expansion. It is a complex topic that affects both agriculture and the environment.

A positive development is also expected for the municipality of Putten: the municipality plans the purchase of the putterer, which is known for its high natural values ​​and historical importance. This could strengthen both the leisure value and tourism in the region. A quote from Bennie Jolink sums up the contradictory perception of farmers and other professional groups: "De enen dag bu j Koning en de other Dag een Boef!"

The challenges are therefore diverse, but the progress in the reduction of emissions can be seen as a step in the right direction. Nevertheless, the question of balance between agriculture and environmental protection remains a central challenge for the coming years.