Dutch farmers took to the roadways and streets June 22 against the newly announced government restrictions on nitrogen. Protest organizers estimate that 40,000 farmers, their families, and supporters came out for the protest. They drove tractors at key stretches across the country, centering on Stroe, east of Amsterdam, snarling traffic and catching international attention.
The government last week announced its plan to end by 2030, up to 70% of the nitrogen used in farming in the nation. There are differing mandates, depending on the location and type of farming, from crops to livestock. Officials call it an “unavoidable transition” and make noises about funding to soften the impact for farmers.
