Antwerp (Brussels Morning Newspaper): Flemish Prime Minister Matthias Diependaele said the legal issues over Project One, an ethane cracker in Antwerp, are resolved. The project will create 2,000 jobs and won’t increase nitrogen pollution in the De Brabantse Wal nature reserve. This decision encourages better cooperation with Dutch officials like Minister Jo Brouns.
The Dutch provinces had previously tried to block the environmental permit for ‘Project One’ because they believed the ethane cracker would cause too much nitrogen pollution in the De Brabantse Wal nature reserve. However, after a meeting, they decided to end their legal fight. Flemish Prime Minister Matthias Diependaele stated that they proved to their Dutch partners that starting Project One would not increase nitrogen pollution and would lead to a decrease over time.
How is the Flemish Government addressing cross-border nitrogen issues and industrial development?
According to Diependaele, he is happy because the problems are sorted out. He wants to build better relationships with nearby countries moving forward. With new governments facing similar issues, there’s a chance to work together more effectively. Flemish Minister Jo Brouns said they will create two teams to solve specific problems on both sides of the border. He will also team up with his Dutch colleague Wiersma to develop a nitrogen policy based on good science and legal rules.
It has been said that the ethane cracker is a key project for the petrochemical industry in Antwerp, chosen over the port of Rotterdam. It will create jobs in the area, with around 300 permanent jobs and 150 contractor positions expected, plus 5 jobs at other companies for each worker on the Project One site, leading to over 2,000 new jobs. Flemish Minister of Ports Annick De Ridder emphasized the importance of the ports and said that sustainable investments are crucial. She is pleased to communicate and work together instead of going through legal processes.
