A new political agreement has just been reached, where the government and several parties have decided to invest 71 million Danish kroner in an emergency package aimed at reducing nitrogen emissions in Vejle Fjord and Limfjorden. This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve the condition of Danish aquatic environments. Minister for the Environment Magnus Heunicke (Socialdemokratiet) stated in a press release that the emergency package will, among other things, finance the conversion of up to 400 hectares of agricultural land near Vejle Fjord. This is expected to prevent around 24 tons of nitrogen from ending up in the fjord, which is already under significant pressure from nutrient pollution.
In Limfjorden, part of the funds will be used for the acquisition of fish farms. The goal here is to restore natural watercourses and connect existing wetlands, which will contribute to a healthier aquatic environment. Additionally, Vejle Municipality plans to reduce intensive agricultural practices on two-thirds of their land. Here, 39 million kroner will be used to purchase high-quality soils and properties, which will later be converted into natural areas. This measure is expected to not only improve the aquatic environment but also have positive effects on climate and biodiversity.
This agreement has been reached by all parties behind the Finance Act for 2024, with the exception of Enhedslisten (The Red-Green Alliance). The initiative marks an important milestone in efforts to protect and improve the Danish aquatic environment and surrounding nature.