Green Growth in the Netherlands

This report, by Statistics Netherlands, gives an overview of green growth in the Netherlands and presents data for the majority of the indicators for green growth as specified by the OECD. The report concludes that relative decoupling (where intensity per unit of economic growth is falling) is evident in the following areas: water use, nitrogen and phosphorus surpluses, greenhouse gas emissions and material consumption. However, comprehensive absolute decoupling (where consumption falls as the economy grows) is not evident.

The report represents a first attempt at translating the OECD indicators for green growth to the national level, and providing feedback to the international community. A recommendation is made for a more comprehensive assessment of green growth in the future. Indicators are grouped into the following themes:

• Environmental efficiency of production ‐ Production‐based greenhouse gas intensity, Consumption‐based greenhouse gas emissions, Energy efficiency, Renewable energy, Nutrient surpluses, Material intensity, Water use intensity, Waste treatment.

• Natural assets base ‐ Stocks of timber, Fish inputs, Natural gas reserves, Land conversion into built‐up land, Threats to biodiversity.

• Environmental quality of life ‐ Pollution induced health problems

• Policy responses and economic opportunities ‐ Green patents, Share of green taxes, Energy prices, Carbon emission trading, Environmental investment and Green jobs. Each of the above indicators is presented on a graph with a time axis, so progress can be measured. Each graph is accompanied by a series of conclusions and a statement of its relevance to green growth.