adSep 14, 2026, 15:00

PBL climate advisor: burning Malaysian rainforest unnecessary for climate goals

The Netherlands' climate agency, PBL, has stated that burning wood pellets from rainforests is unnecessary for reaching climate neutrality. Meanwhile, the country is struggling to meet its ambitious emission reduction goals for 2040 as rising energy consumption from data centers offsets progress made in other sectors.

The Netherlands does not need to burn wood pellets from rainforests like those in Malaysia to achieve climate neutrality, according to the Netherlands Environmental Assessment Agency (PBL). Marko Hekkert, the agency's director, clarified that while advanced biofuels remain essential for shipping and aviation, wood-based biomass is not a necessary component of the country's energy transition. This statement follows mounting public criticism and a lawsuit from the Clean Air Committee, which challenges the government's practice of subsidizing imported wood products that are often mislabeled as sustainable waste.

Meanwhile, the Netherlands is falling behind on its long-term climate targets. While emissions have decreased significantly since 1990, current projections suggest the country will miss its 2040 goal of a 90 percent reduction, reaching only about 72 percent even with additional measures. The agency notes that energy consumption by data centers is currently offsetting emission gains made by households. As the government faces pressure to reconsider its subsidies, officials remain under scrutiny regarding the environmental impact of current policies.

Politics Economy Netherlands World

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Based on reporting by ad. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.

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