Buy-out scheme for livestock farmers to control ammonia emissions and Subsidy Scheme for the Remediation of Pig Farms (SRV)

As of 1 January 2013, intensive livestock holdings in the Netherlands must adhere to a nationwide Decree on low emission housing systems. The decree states maximum levels of ammonia emission. With its Action Plan on ammonia emission reduction at livestock farms, the Dutch government implemented a policy of tolerance under the said Decree on low emission housing systems. Those holdings intending to convert in the long term could avail of a buy-out scheme up to 1 January 2020 in order to achieve compliance. Pig farmers participating in the buy-out scheme did not have to convert their pig stalls under the Decree; Nevertheless, they had to achieve an equally large emission reduction compared to when they had adopted a low emission housing system as from 1 January 2013, using different measures. This scheme allowed those farmers who intended to cease production within a foreseeable time to continue for several more years. Such farmers were unwilling to make any further large investments in their holdings. Those farmers wishing to cease production could also register for the Subsidy Scheme for the Remediation of Pig Farms (SRV). Participants in the buy-out scheme were however not allowed to join the SRV and as such these farmers did not receive compensation for loss of value or demolition of the stables.