Electoral Program Party for the Animals Parliamentary elections 2021 Idealism is the new realism
←
→
Page content transcription
If your browser does not render page correctly, please read the page content below
Plan B
Electoral Program
Party for the Animals
Parliamentary elections 2021
Idealism is the
new realism
ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021
1
Introduction – Plan B
Table of contents
Introduction 3
1. A liveable Earth 8
For all its inhabitants
2. Animal rights 20
Animals have the right to live according to their nature
3. Food and agriculture 34
Only sustainable agriculture can provide healthy food for everyone
4. Systemic change 44
Economic growth is the problem, not the solution
5. Environment, energy and mobility 54
Protect everything of value, share scarce resources equally
We live in uncertain times. But we also
stand on the threshold of important and
6. A healthy society 66
long-awaited changes. Citizens around the
A government that puts health first
world are taking to the streets in droves,
demanding action for climate change. The
7. Living space for everyone 78 winds of change are blowing. A growing
Appropriate and affordable housing in green surroundings number of people refuse to contribute to
the livestock industry and support for free
8. More knowledge, wisdom and beauty 86 trade agreements is dwindling. Politicians
Education, science and culture in traditional parties are clearly becoming
increasingly uncomfortable with the
9. A just society 94 consequences of their own neoliberal
With a government that listens to people, rather than listens in on people policies. Shareholders have been growing
rich while the average citizen has been left
out in the cold. The economic system no
10. Europe and international solidarity 104
The Earth offers enough to satisfy everyone’s needs longer serves our human values. It is time to
but not everyone’s greed make radically different choices.
2 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021
3
Introduction - Plan B
The coronavirus crisis has strengthened that that will, at best, only become effective decades radical reduction in the number of animals justice crisis, and now a health crisis that has
realisation. The pandemic has magnified the from now. We will not compromise and join in in livestock farming is necessary to liberate paralyzed the world. These crises are a result of
systemic deficiencies that have been put in place endless debates between parties, which are farmers, animals, and the environment from a the way humans interact with nature and animals.
by traditional politics. Turning the world into one fundamentally at odds, to reach a watered-down dead-end agricultural system. More free trade We are digging our own graves and, therefore,
giant marketplace, where production needs to be version of core values where ideals have been left is not beneficial for human rights and for the need to fundamentally change how we define our
carried out as cheaply and efficiently as possible, by the wayside. So, what will we offer? A brave environment; it goes against our nature and our relationship with animals and the environment.
has put us in a very precarious situation. new political direction that offers a new prospect common interests.
Suddenly, we are dependent on China, the for people, animals, nature and the environment Plan B is about being safe rather than sorry.
world’s factory, for our essential goods. Jobs that and in which ideals play a central role. Our ideals. We are breaking taboos. Instead of an economic Because there is no Planet B.
were undervalued are now deemed crucial to Your ideals. We are convinced that this is possible. system that only serves the elite, we want a
our well-being — in stark contrast to the rewards We are going to do our very best to realise your welfare economy that is sustainable for our planet.
associated with careers with no perceptible ideals. Staying true to your ideals, that is our goal. Instead of making agricultural export our goal, we The new Doughnut economy
added value. Even in our wealthy society, the will help farmers make the transition to regional
number of people who are dependent on food aid and truly sustainable production where the human A sustainable economy stays within the
has exploded. A virus that was transferred from Idealism is the new realism factor and farming expertise are given free rein carrying capacity of our planet. The British
animals to humans is responsible for the deaths once more. We protect farmers, self-employed economist Kate Raworth describes this system
of more than one million people worldwide and The Earth offers enough to satisfy everyone’s entrepreneurs, and employees in our part of the as a doughnut, where everyone has the right
has precipitated the largest economic crisis since needs but not everyone’s greed. The biggest world and in developing countries against unfair to basic (social) facilities, and no one has the
the Second World War. Meanwhile, new zoonotic challenge at the moment is keeping our planet competition and a price-driven market. right to abuse the ecosystem for their own gain.
diseases with pandemic implications are rearing habitable for future generations; an Earth with We should let our actions be led by a sense
their heads, such as the bird flu and the mutation clean air, clean water, rich biodiversity, fertile We are a driving force behind fundamental, of community and the health and well-being
of COVID-19 present in minks. If humans would soil, a stable climate and a harmonious society positive change. The coronavirus crisis is a turning of people, animals and the environment, and
have left animals alone, we would not have had involving every living being. A society where point, a chance to say farewell to ‘business as be geared towards significantly reducing our
to deal with an abundance of infectious diseases, caring for each other plays a central role, where usual’ once and for all. Going back to the new ecological footprint. One-sided growth models
75% of which originate from the animal kingdom. the fair distribution of resources and equal abnormal is no longer an option. A society where from the Netherlands Bureau for Economic
treatment in every sense becomes a reality, and people live in harmony with other beings, with Policy Analysis hardly take into account the
All the signs indicate that we have reached a where quality education and meaningful work our living environment and with each other, is a consequences of our actions. In Plan B, the
turning point. We cannot afford to continue with becomes universally accessible. A society where reassuring thought, for now, and for the future. polluter pays, whether that’s the aviation,
business as usual. It is time for Plan B — because people are actively involved in the changes agricultural, transport or industrial sector.
there is no Planet B. This election programme required to make this happen. We need to say Initiatives that offer long-term solutions for
goodbye to systems that no longer function, Biased growth our future, such as preventive healthcare and
to the old-fashioned division into left or right, sustainable agriculture, are given priority.
The historian Philipp Blom describes the and to egocentrism. Our eco-centric program is Current policy is aimed at a rapid return to the Labour taxes are strongly reduced, and the
situation as follows: “We are seeing a break needed to turn the tide. We are the only party traditional exploitation of the Earth’s resources, consumption of scarce resources becomes more
between eras. We have reached a tipping that takes the interests of every living being — resources that for a while we believed to be expensive. More jobs will become available as
point in history, and we do not know on human and animal — as a guiding principle. We endless. Injecting large sums of borrowed money we reduce the costs of labour and invest in the
which side the coin will land. We are stuck have a vision for the entire planet. This is what into the economy does not provide perspective or green economy. Vital occupations will be re-
in an economic model that is destined to
makes us unique. a structural solution. As if by reflex, polluting and evaluated, and public facilities restored. The
fail. Either it ends in catastrophe with new
tax-evading concerns are given support, leaving teacher, the nurse, the refuse collector, the
pandemics, war, no access to resources,
you name it, or we start heading in a new The Party for the Animals’ unique starting the government very little money for healthcare constable, the cleaner and all those other crucial
direction. But one thing is certain; the tide of position provides the space and creativity to and the cultural sector. Scant attention is given to and undervalued occupations are given due
history will turn.” provide effective solutions. We are offered a what truly matters, issues that are often literally compensation.
wonderful opportunity to tackle the roots of a matter of life and death, but that politically
the crisis we are facing and to find collaborative speaking require a more long-term vision.
is our Plan B. We will not treat symptoms. We solutions. Economic growth is the problem, Plaguing animals leads to human plagues
will not attempt to refine an unsupportable not the solution. The Netherlands cannot We are dealing with a number of crises on a global
economic system. We will not offer solutions be the world’s dairy farmer and butcher. A scale: a climate crisis, a biodiversity crisis, a social Of the infectious diseases threatening the human
4 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021
5
Introduction - Plan B
population around the globe, 75% are transmitted years. Therefore, having fewer animals in the more. Improving public transport and reducing industry that fuels conflicts. Combating global
through animals. According to virologist and livestock industry offers many benefits: water car traffic will reduce the level of fine particles hunger and poverty starts with a fair distribution
professor Ron Fouchier from the Erasmus MC, conservation, more space for nature and housing, in the air and generate more space for greener of the resources our planet has to offer. The
we are only a few steps away from a mutation of fewer climate problems and a significant streets. Through remote work, people can live Party for the Animals would like to use at least
the bird flu which, when it becomes contagious reduction in the risk of a new pandemic. in rural areas, giving the struggling rural regions 1% of our GNP to combat global inequality.
among humans, could lead to a mortality rate a new impetus. Overheated cities would be given Inequality has far-reaching consequences: when
dozen times higher than COVID-19. This makes Biodiversity as a priority more space and breathing room. Schools, small large groups of people fall victim to climate
how we exploit animals extremely dangerous, supermarkets, and local public transport would change, lack of economic opportunity and war,
not only for the animals but also for our own lives In the Netherlands, only 15% of the indigenous increase the quality of life in the immediate living the migration streams of those people who are
and well-being. The livestock industry is literally animal and plant species survive today. Not only environment. cast adrift can no longer be managed, leading to
making us sick and needs to be put to a halt as is the diversity of species in jeopardy, but the widespread repercussions.
soon as possible. The Party for the Animals wants food supply along with the well-being and safety
to see a reduction in the number of animals bred, of humans is also at stake. In Plan B, we will Making people better: a government Stay true to your ideals
exploited and killed in the livestock industry every connect nature areas with each other. We will fighting for a healthy society!
year (currently in the Netherlands, this amounts to stop biomass production and plant new forests More and more people realise that it is time
over 640 million farm animals) by at least 75%. on a large scale. In so doing, we will remove CO2 In an unhealthy living environment, people need to move away from traditional paradigms that
from the air, give nature a chance to recover, and to do their best to not get sick. That’s not the no longer work. You are one of those people;
If the farmlands currently used for the cultivation develop more green space for people and animals. way things should work. The close intertwining otherwise, you wouldn’t have read this far. This
of livestock feed for the meat industry are instead We literally have some scores to settle with of industry and politics has given rise to poor air programme tells you about the Party for the
used for crops for direct human consumption, threats to nature such as agricultural pollutants, quality, poor health conditions, a hypocritical Animals’ vision for the entire planet. Our political
we can feed three times as many people with the nitrogen levels and greenhouse gasses. food lobby, a deadly tobacco industry, and a voting behaviour is based on four key concepts:
same crop yield. We can even give some of those drinks industry that has made our young people tolerance, sustainability, personal freedom and
fields back to nature. In the coming 40 years, our addicted to an unhealthy lifestyle before they’re personal responsibility. Our Plan B does not
planet must produce the same amount of food as 10 out of 10 for climate change even old enough to make their own decisions. require much in monetary terms, but to turn
we have been producing in the past 8,000 years. Everyone has the right to a healthy living the tide, we do require the courage of many
This is only possible through radical change. The coming ten years will be decisive for our environment. The government must safeguard brave citizens. We will need that courage on
Food waste must be actively combated, and a climate. That’s why the 2021 elections are more our liberties and develop a framework for 17 March 2021. If we cannot rely on the current
fairer distribution of food resources is therefore important than ever. The energy transition will protecting our health. politicians to create positive change, then it’s
essential. have to take place in the coming decade if we time for citizens to get politically involved.
want to prevent our planet from heating up These elections offer a unique opportunity to
This will only offer advantages. Through more to dangerous temperatures. We are the first International solidarity end the traditional game of catch-up between
plant-based agriculture, we will save animals generation to undergo the consequences of global fossil-fuelled political dinosaurs at the expense
from immeasurable suffering. And when we give warming, and the last generation who can stop We are worried about the large number of of the climate and the environment. It is time
our chickens the room to follow their natural the situation from getting worse. Every ton of CO2 conflicts in the world today. Millions of people to stay true to our ideals instead of engaging in
tendencies, we no longer need to fear the that enters the atmosphere right now will continue are being forced to flee their homes. The endless discussion, compromise and patching up
threat of a bird flu pandemic provoked by the to loom over our planet for hundreds of years like conflicts are often compounded by water and holes. Together, we can effect radical change to
incarceration of chickens under highly unnatural a sword of Damocles. The Netherlands cannot food shortages arising from climate change. We government policy and provide a happy outcome
circumstances. More land will become available remain a non-committal discussion platform can make our world safer and more peaceful if to future generations.
for nature and residential areas. Our soil will for political parties with opposing interests and we are willing to look at our own involvement
return to its healthy state. We will prevent priorities. As a country that is largely situated in the causes behind these problems. With These elections are the opportunity of a lifetime.
drought and the collapse of structures due to below sea level, it will have to actively defend our economic dogmas of endless growth and Never before have we seen so many encouraging
poor soil conditions. In the Netherlands at the itself against climate change. If we can use our a higher GDP, we have often ignored the well- signs to make the outdated fossil-fuelled way a
moment, a million homeowners are in danger buildings to generate energy instead of waste being and future of others. We waste resources: thing of the past. Turn this crisis into a turning
of losing their precious homes to collapse energy, that would make a world of difference. fossil fuels, fresh water, and phosphates. point and give our youth, our children and our
as a result of lower groundwater levels due With the decline in the aviation industry, clear We have an aggressive export strategy that grandchildren a sustainable future. Take sides
to the agricultural sector. Average expected skies have become more prevalent, and the air is detrimental to the local economies in on 17 March and vote. For the animals. For the
costs per homeowner: € 80,000 in the coming we breathe has become fresh and healthy once underdeveloped countries, and a weapons planet. For yourself.
6 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021
7
1 A liveable Earth
For all its inhabitants
The Earth, and its natural wealth, is essential
for every form of life. It is home to an
enormous diversity of ecosystems and plant
and animal species. However, our planet
is now worse off than it has ever been
before. If we don’t make radically different
choices, we are heading straight for a global
temperature increase of four degrees Celsius
by the end of this century. We are already
seeing the consequences of this temperature
increase: droughts, flooding, apocalyptic
forest fires along with devastating hurricanes
and storms. Nature areas are disappearing
or being choked to death, ecosystems are
being thrown out of balance, and biodiversity
is being wiped out. As a result of human
activity, plant and animal species across the
globe are faced with extinction at an alarming
rate. Over 70% of all land-based animals
have disappeared. The Intergovernmental
Science-Policy Platform on Biodiversity
and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) warns us
of the extinction of one million plant and
animal species. The human population,
represented by a meagre 0.01% of all life on
Earth, is responsible. The loss in biodiversity
precipitates further climate change, and vice
versa, causing a downward spiral that must
be stopped. The Party for the Animals stands
for reducing consumption patterns. Our
activities should not deplete more resources
than our Earth has to offer. We still have a lot
of ground to cover, literally.
8 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021
9
A liveable earth
As the country with the highest concentration Supreme Court reminded the Dutch Government aviation and shipping sectors will no longer be international train connections.
of livestock and the second-largest exporter of their legal obligation to combat climate exempt from realising these climate goals. • The International Criminal Court will be
of agricultural produce in the world, the change, makes painfully clear that far more • The less energy you use, the less you produce. given the authority to prosecute CEO’s of
Netherlands has a significant influence on drastic measures are required to achieve our That’s why we are committed to conserving companies or officials from countries who
climate and biodiversity. More than half of the climate goals than traditional politics initially had energy in the agriculture, industry and are guilty of ecocide. Ecocide is a crime in
country’s surface area is used for (monoculture) in mind. Climate and biodiversity goals should transport sectors and in urban areas. By 2030, which ecosystems are lost due to negligence,
agriculture, and only 15% of the original no longer be optional. The time to restore our the Netherlands will have reduced its energy damage or destruction.
biodiversity in the Netherlands survives today. climate and biodiversity is now. Any delay is consumption by at least 50%. The transition
Eutrophication and drought, in particular unacceptable. We are the first generation to to an energy-efficient society will not only
resulting from the bio-industry, significantly undergo the consequences of global warming, produce a reduction in costs but also plenty Ecological growth instead of
damage what little nature is left. In addition and the last generation who can prevent the of green job opportunities, for example, economic growth
to climate change, the large-scale fishing situation from getting worse. in construction, the energy sector and
industry causes substantial biodiversity loss. The (technical) education sector. Significant investments need to be made in
damage caused to ecosystems and biodiversity • The number of animals in the livestock ecological growth through improved protection
is compounded by climate change for which Facing the biodiversity and climate crisis industry will be reduced by at least 75%. of the environment and the development of new
the fishing industry is partly responsible. The together Agricultural farmland that is no longer used natural environments. The stubborn focus of
overexploitation of our seas and oceans caused will be returned to nature, and space will be traditional politics on economic growth and the
by the fishing industry contributes to the rate The most critical measure to avert the crisis is created for residential areas. associated increase in consumption behaviour,
of global warming. In addition to the intensive to reduce our ecological footprint. This requires • At least half of the coronavirus relief funds in combination with sky-high subsidies for
livestock industry, the Dutch fossil fuel industry a comprehensive approach involving the will be used for investments benefitting polluting activities, has led to an irresponsible
is also disrupting the climate and the natural combination of biodiversity measures with climate nature, the environment, climate, and escalation of the biodiversity issue. This not only
environment around the globe. Moreover, plans. By implementing sustainable changes sustainable, environmentally friendly work has immensely adverse consequences for nature
the loss of biodiversity and habitat for many in the food production sector, reducing our opportunities. reserves in the Netherlands but for ecosystems
species ensures that contagious diseases such energy consumption, and reducing our resource • The fossil fuel industry will no longer be elsewhere as well. The exploitation of the Earth
as COVID-19 are more easily transmitted from consumption, we give nature a chance to recover. exempt. The subsidies for the fossil fuel for the short-term interests of a small group of
animals to humans. The food supply and health As a result, we can benefit from more greenery, industry will be abolished. We will reduce people must end.
and safety of everyone on our planet is therefore a more pleasant and cleaner living environment, energy consumption and invest in the
at stake. By developing a green economy, we can fewer emissions from traffic and agriculture and a development of sustainable energy sources. • The creation of new nature areas and the
make a world of difference for a liveable future. more meaningful and greener job market. We will We will work towards a new economy reconnecting of fragmented nature reserves
turn a no-win into a win-win situation. that functions within the environmental will provide room for nature development.
The Earth may still recover if we radically change capabilities of our planet. This will make our nature more resilient
course. We need to stop with unrestrained • A new ministry will be tasked with the • The burning of biomass fuels and the and allow fragile ecosystems to recover,
economic growth on a planet that cannot grow responsibility for animal welfare: the Ministry fermentation of manure to generate heat saving populations such as bird and insect
along with us. By transitioning to a new economy of Health, Sports and Animal Welfare and electricity will be banned. Subsidies on populations from extinction in the process.
that functions in harmony with the capabilities • A Ministry of Climate and Biodiversity will be biomass fuels will be terminated immediately. • Agricultural farmlands will be converted into
and resources of the planet, we give the Earth created. The ministry will hold the same status • The Netherlands will choose a necessary nature reserves where the biodiversity can
a chance to recover. To do so, we believe in the as the Ministry of Finance: the policies of reduction in the aviation industry. This means recover, and the emission of greenhouse
importance of a socially equitable transition. other ministries will from now on be evaluated that the number of flights will be reduced to gasses will be significantly reduced.
The emission of greenhouse gasses is mostly on sustainability. They will safeguard the a maximum of 300,000 flights per annum by Landowners will be compensated for the
produced by a few large polluters. The Party environment, biodiversity, resources, and 2030. change in land use.
for the Animals wants those polluters to pay CO2 budgets in such a way that the natural • Maastricht Aachen Airport will no longer • Natural landscapes are designed to encourage
the lion’s share of the costs of sustainability and environment can recover. expand. Twente Airport and Lelystad Airport pollination and produce an animal-friendly
wants society to benefit from the transition. The • The Netherlands will do its utmost to limit will not be thrown open for commercial environment to create an ecological network
polluter pays while we give sustainable sectors global warming to a maximum of 1.5 degrees flights. Groningen Airport Eelde and of habitats and corridors.
room to grow. Celsius and will be climate neutral by 2030 Rotterdam The Hague Airport will close. • Fossil-fuelled leaf blowers will be forbidden
at the very latest. We will establish these • The Netherlands will actively work towards because of their damaging effects on air
The Urgenda Climate Case, where the Dutch reduction goals in a new Climate Act. The promoting affordable, sustainable, and fast quality and noise pollution. Leaf blowing
10 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021
11
A liveable earth
will only be permitted on paved areas for the emission of greenhouse gases. transition to sustainable energy by making the insulation of homes and other buildings and
safety purposes, provided the leaves are not • The actual costs of products and services polluter pay. by implementing alternative forms of central
disposed of but moved to unpaved locations will be reflected in the price, so costs are not heating.
nearby. borne by the society at large. • We will lower labour taxes and increase taxes • Shale and coal gas will remain in the ground
• A ban will be implemented on the use • The government will give unbiased and for the use of resources, pollution, capital, as the extraction of these gases will be
of chemical pesticides, herbicides, and transparent information about the impact of and profit. prohibited. No permits will be issued for
insecticides. products on services on the climate and the • A considerable CO2 tax will be implemented exploratory drilling. Existing permits will be
• The cabinet will strive to reduce the Dutch environment. that will apply to all polluting sectors. The revoked. We will not allow the storage of CO2
contribution to Earth Overshoot Day (marking • A government campaign will be launched to aviation and shipping industries will lose their under Dutch soil, including in the North Sea.
the day when human consumption exceeds better inform citizens about climate change. special status. Empty gas fields will not be used to store any
the renewable resources our planet has to • Any policy, regardless of the domain it falls • Subsidies and lower tax rates for energy form of natural gas.
offer within one year) by moving the date under, will be assessed for the effect that it producers and bulk consumers will be • Coal plants will be closed as quickly as
back to at least the 31st December. has on sustainability, animal rights and human abolished. This will increase the incentive possible. Electricity produced by coal plants
rights. for bulk consumers to reduce their energy and traditional nuclear plants will not be given
• The government will set an example. consumption. The establishment of energy- access to the Dutch electricity grid.
A just climate policy Procurement of all products and contracts guzzling data centres and other polluting • The Netherlands will not build any new
will be 100% sustainable and fair trade by industries in the Netherlands will be nuclear plants, and existing plants will be
The Party for the Animals stands for a sustainable 2030. This also applies to organisations discouraged. closed as quickly as possible. It is morally
society in harmony with the Earth’s resource that are linked to the government: network • The environmental costs of the production irresponsible to burden future generations
capacity. Despite the lofty promises made by administrators, water utility companies, of heat and electricity will be reflected in with even more nuclear waste that will
traditional political parties, we will not achieve ports, airports, independent governance the price, making polluting energy more continue to be dangerous for thousands of
the goals stipulated by the Paris Climate Accord organisations and all public bodies, such expensive and cleaner energy cheaper. years. Furthermore, constructing a nuclear
at the current rate. The current climate policy as the central government, provinces, Suppliers of solar and wind energy will be plant will take decades, rendering the
is a compromise between the interests of our municipalities, water boards and businesses given priority access to the electricity grid. construction of such a plant ineffective. The
planet and the interests of the fossil fuel industry. that receive subsidies or tax benefits. • Advertising from the fossil-fuel industry (coal, consequences of a nuclear accident would be
These compromises, however, are threatening • Together, we will shape the transition to oil and gas companies) and advertisements disastrous.
to flood our country, with all the consequences a climate-neutral Netherlands by 2030. for fossil-fuelled products and services (such • Strongly polluting fossil fuels such as oil sands
they entail. The Party for the Animals is the only Members of the public must be closely as petrol cars and flights) compounds the and shale gas will not cross European borders;
political party that aims for a climate policy involved with climate policy. The government climate issues we face and will therefore be the Netherlands will do its utmost to prevent
without compromise. The transition required to will organise a Climate crisis civilian banned. Warnings will be displayed at sales that.
rein in the climate crisis has a significant impact committee that will act as an advisory board outlets of fossil fuels, air travel services and
on all aspects of society. Major opportunities on climate measures. vehicles with fossil-fuelled engines.
lie ahead for improving our standards of living, • Energy companies will be obligated to provide Plant trees for fresh air
streamlining our transport sector, generating a minimum percentage of sustainable energy
clean energy, and producing healthier food The polluter pays produced in the Netherlands. This percentage People and animals cannot live without trees.
without asking too much from our environment. will be increased annually. We will set a limit Trees filter the air polluted by industry, the
The transition to a climate-neutral society will To combat climate disruption, we want to on the emission of greenhouse gases by livestock industry and transport. Trees cool the
provide new, green job opportunities on a large rapidly reduce the levels of CO2 emissions. new and existing power plants. The limit will Earth down and provide a home to countless
scale, for example, in the (technical) education, However, the Netherlands is currently still almost periodically be adjusted to a lower level. animals. Trees and natural forests are invaluable
construction and energy sectors. They will only entirely dependent on fossil fuels. As long as the • The use of gas for bulk consumers will for biodiversity. Trees also play a critical
succeed if everyone participates and if the costs government continues to support and subsidise become more expensive over the next few role in villages and towns, to strengthen the
are shared equally among all parties. The largest this energy system, we keep the traditional years, increasing the incentive to reduce biodiversity and provide cooling in a world
polluters will have to pay their share for their role economy alive and hardly give sustainable gas consumption and transition to other with rising temperatures. The shade and water
in causing these problems. solutions a fair chance. In the past five years, no forms of energy. By 2030, the Netherlands evaporation from one large tree provides the
less than 8,3 billion euros of government support will no longer use natural gas as an energy same cooling power as 10 air conditioning units.
• The Netherlands will play a leading role in are given each year to the fossil fuel industry. The source. The domestic demand for natural We need to fully invest in trees as our natural air
making globally binding agreements to reduce Party for the Animals will pave the way for a quick gas will decrease through the improved conditioners. Large, old trees cool much better
12 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021
13
A liveable earth
than smaller trees. Therefore, we not only have sustainable and causes air pollution. Subsidies • Given that 70% of the agricultural produce Nonetheless, the Netherlands hovers somewhere
to plant new trees, but we must certainly cherish on woody biomass will be abolished. A ban is currently used for export, this significant at the bottom of the list when it comes to the
our existing trees. In a country that is rapidly will be implemented on the use of biomass to cut-back in the livestock industry will allow number of nature reserves, and they are literally
heating up, it is of the utmost importance to generate energy and heat. the Dutch farmer to primarily produce for being sold off en masse by the government. The
plant new trees and to give older trees a future. • Economic and fiscal systems will be and supply their own region. This will lead Party for the Animals aims to keep and expand
implemented in the service of a healthy to short food supply chains and a far smaller the natural areas we have left in the Netherlands.
The best moment to plant a tree was 20 years planet. Laws will be implemented to ecological footprint for the agricultural sector. We want the original plans to connect nature
ago, but the second-best moment is today. prevent products or financial services from • The government is committed to reducing areas (the National Ecological Network) to finally
Nonetheless, Dutch forests are being chopped contributing to local and global deforestation the production and consumption of animal be implemented. This will give plant and animal
down for financial gain at an alarming rate. and the destruction of ecosystems and proteins through active campaigning and species room to grow and flourish, and the
Furthermore, forests suffer under the effects of species. policymaking. This is to ensure a quicker natural reserves in the Netherlands will expand
climate change and drought. We need to protect, transition to a more plant-based and therefore and become less fragile.
strengthen, and expand our forests and our trees. animal and climate-friendly society.
Give nature room to breathe • In 2030, the emission of nitrogen (ammonia • Environmental policy will once again be a
Unfortunately, the Netherlands is also largely and nitrous oxides) in the country will be 50% priority and the responsibility of the central
responsible for the destruction of nature In the Netherlands, we emit far more nitrogen- lower than in 2020. These concrete goals will government instead of the provinces. It will
elsewhere on Earth. Tropical rainforests, based compounds than nature can compensate be laid down by law. In areas where nature include a performance obligation for nature
primaeval forests and other natural areas are for. No less than 41% of the nitrogen deposits requires even lower levels, the nitrogen conservancy, with concrete and measurable
being destroyed for the production of palm oil found in protected nature reserves comes from emissions levels will be reduced even further goals and terms.
and the large-scale cultivation of soybeans to the Dutch agricultural sector. The issue primarily after 2030. • The Oostvaardersplassen will no longer be the
feed the hundreds of millions of animals in the concerns ammonia from animal manure and • Subsidies will no longer be available for responsibility of the Province of Flevoland and
Dutch livestock industry. Meanwhile, trees are urine. When the ammonia deposits itself in a technical stopgap measures used by the will become subject to central government
being chopped down on a large scale abroad nearby nature reserve, it acidifies the soil, a life- livestock industry such as air washers or policy.
to produce wooden pellets as fuel for biomass threatening condition for many plant and animal so-called low-emission stable systems. The • The original National Ecological Network
plants in the Netherlands. We need to put a stop species. The blatant way in which the cabinet principle of the polluter pays will also apply to (EHS), a network of connected nature
to this. continues to delay any decisive action in this the livestock industry. reserves, will be implemented in full by 2025
regard is intolerable. A substantial decrease in the • In and surrounding Natura 2000 areas, at the latest. Nature reserves belonging to the
• Indigenous trees will be planted on a large number of animals raised, used, and slaughtered no mining activities (such as gas or salt government will not be sold.
scale. This is necessary to strengthen our in the livestock industry is imperative. This will extraction) will take place. • Natural areas that have been almost
natural environment and increase the storage give the natural environment room to breathe • The aviation sector will decline substantially; irreversibly damaged will be given priority,
of CO2. Furthermore, planting trees in cities and recover from years of over-fertilisation and the number of flights will be reduced to a purchased, restored and where possible,
will create a more pleasant climate during eutrophication. Furthermore, stricter enforcement maximum of 300,000 flights per annum in connected with other nature reserves.
warmer periods. on the proper implementation of nature permits 2030. Reducing the number of flights will • Activities and projects that are conducted at the
• Indigenous trees and forests will be given should take place to limit the impact of damaging lower the emission of greenhouse gases and expense of existing natural environments will
protected status. industries, road construction activities, and mega- nitrogen. only be allowed to continue if they can visibly
• Permit conditions for the chopping down of stables. This also applies to businesses which do and essentially contribute to the sustainability of
trees will be stricter so trees will no longer not have the correct nature permits and where the the region in the long term. If sacrificing nature
be felled without good reason. When a tree government has thus far turned a blind eye, such Connecting and protecting nature is deemed unavoidable, the nature lost will be
absolutely must be removed, moving the as at Schiphol Airport, Lelystad Airport and many compensated in the direct vicinity with an area
tree will always be considered as the primary biomass plants. Nature is of great importance for the biodiversity twice as large. The nature of the compensation
option. Nesting and brooding sites of animals and well-being of people and animals. That is is to be agreed on beforehand.
will be protected with an obligatory quiet • A 75% decrease in the number of animals why it is critical to ensure that there is enough
period during the brooding and feeding involved in the livestock industry will give nature to safeguard the interests of every living
season. Severe penalties will be placed on the the environment some breathing room. The being by creating large, interconnected areas A nature-friendly water network
illegal felling of trees. livestock industry and polluting horticultural where animals can find refuge and where the
• Trees are not fuel. Burning wood and wood industries, with their large-scale adoption of biodiversity can flourish. This will, in turn, The North Sea is our largest nature
scraps as biomass for energy production is not poisons and chemical fertilisers, will be scaled provide enough space for people to enjoy their reserve,formerly home to an enormous diversity
back at a rapid pace. natural environment. of species. Unfortunately, the region finds
14 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021
15
A liveable earth
itself in dire straits. Through intensive fishing agricultural machinery can access the fields. sewer system. The proper disposal of polluted members of the public and businesses will
practices, large fish such as sharks and rays have This results in compression of the soil, which water will be made compulsory. be set up to discourage the use of harmful
become rare. becomes so compacted that it is no longer able • Making gardens green again will be strongly poisons.
to retain water as efficiently. This causes natural encouraged. Paved areas in public spaces will • Riverbanks, dikes, and waterfronts should be
• The Wadden Sea must receive the legal areas to dry out and shrivel up, increases the be reduced and replaced by plants. constructed in as natural a setting as possible,
protection that this UNESCO World Heritage frequency of wildfires, reduces biodiversity even • Exemption from water tax with the use of and mowing policies will be adjusted to
site deserves. Disruptive economic activities, further, causes tearing and sagging in dikes and more than 300 cubic meters of water will no accommodate the well-being of plants and
such as gas extraction and fishing, will be collapse in buildings, and further decreases longer apply. A progressive water tax system animals at all times. Fauna Uittreed Plaatsen
restricted. the water quality and quality of life in streams. will be implemented instead whereby bulk (FUPs, or fauna transition zones) will be
• More protected sea reserves will be Moreover, the agricultural sector is a bulk consumers, such as the chemical and food implemented in areas with elevated quays so
implemented. In these areas, fishing, gas consumer of groundwater, surface water and tap production sectors, will pay the costs of their animals can exit the water.
extraction or other detrimental activities water for irrigation. With these extremely low high levels of water consumption. • The natural environment will be protected
will be prohibited, allowing plants and fish water levels, long periods of drought, and the from risks during shipping accidents.
to recover. Areas such as the Friese Font, uneven distribution of water, animals and nature • Ecologically valuable shipwrecks will be
Oosterschelde Nature Reserve and the are being threatened. Through the oxidation of Water as a driving force of nature protected.
Centrale Oestergronden will be granted full peat, each year more and more CO2 is released • The guaranteed seats on the water boards,
protection. from peat bogs (the equivalent of the emissions Clean surface and groundwater should be a which until now have been reserved for
• For the restoration and conservation of marine from 2 million cars) and homes in the surrounding given, but the reality shows otherwise. Surface farmers, businesses and management
ecosystems, the ‘no, unless’-principle will be areas are in danger of collapse. water is polluted by agricultural poisons, organisations will be abolished. Water
adopted immediately for economic activities. medicine residues, chemical waste products, and boards will have a democratic distribution of
• In the Nature Conservancy Law, the The Party for the Animals wants to prioritise the microplastics along with manure and hormones members.
protection of various endangered migratory optimal protection and conservation of nature in from the livestock industry. As a result, plants
fish and sea mammals will be restored. The terms of water distribution. A decisive climate and animals die, and the fresh water supply is in
creation of opportunities for fish to migrate policy is also an essential condition for the jeopardy. The North Sea and the Wadden Sea are Protection of nature in the Dutch Caribbean
will be a strict condition. If there are any prevention of drought. not only affected by pollution (through plastics,
barriers, facilities such as fish traps will be chemicals etc.) but also by overfishing. Fishing Bonaire, Saba, and Sint-Eustatius are special
implemented, allowing fish to pass. • Through a natural water level and the practices extensively damage the seafloor. municipalities of the Netherlands and islands
• Each year, millions of fish die in pumping equitable distribution of water, we can return Many fish species are facing extinction. If our boasting a rich diversity of plant and animal
stations. Locks and pumping stations will water management to a healthy state. This freshwater and groundwater sources are clean species. They are home to coral reefs, rare wild
be adapted so that fish can swim past them. is beneficial to the diversity of species and and the fishermen are barred from exploiting orchids and more than 10,000 animal species,
Fishing in the vicinities of these fish passages could be the salvation for woodland bird the seas, then marine life can recover from this including flamingos, iguanas and sea turtles.
will be immediately forbidden. Fish migration species, many of whom are now dying from enormous loss in biodiversity. This unique nature and its many animal species
routes to and from the sea will be made safe malnutrition in part because of long periods of are under threat from overfishing, climate
for fish, and the Haringvlietsluizen will be drought. • Businesses that pollute the water will be change, the acidification of seawater through the
opened further. • Groundwater levels will no longer be kept dealt with. The central government takes absorption of CO2, dredging activities, erosion,
• A water connection and fish migration route artificially low to benefit the agricultural control of the supervision and enforcement tourism, and poor wastewater management.
will be constructed between the Ijsselmeer sector. This will give nature reserves that are of environmental laws. More capacity and
and the Markermeer. sensitive to drought a chance to recover. Peat expertise will be made available to the • The central government will contribute to the
bogs will be infused with fresh water and can supervisors. The fines will be increased conservation, protection and strengthening
serve as a climate buffer. significantly and in proportion to the turnover of the natural environment on and around
Drought in the watery Netherlands • No longer will water be sluiced away for of the fined businesses. the Dutch Caribbean islands through legal
the agricultural sector (for example through • The intensive fertilisation of agricultural areas measures, enforcement, and financial
More and more areas in the Netherlands are the unlimited use of water wells). A nature- will be put to a halt. support.
suffering from drought due to climate change friendly water policy will manage the • The enforcement of and control over the use • Protecting the coral reefs is of the utmost
and an artificially suppressed water level. The distribution of water, where nature is given of pesticides will be intensified. The sale importance. The sale and import of
groundwater level is deliberately kept low in priority over agriculture. of pesticides for private individuals will be sunscreens containing oxybenzone will be
many agricultural areas so increasingly massive • Rainwater run-off will be separated from the banned, and an educational campaign for forbidden to preserve the coral reefs.
16 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021
17
A liveable earth
• The central government will invest in the
rapid implementation of proper wastewater
treatment facilities on the islands. These
facilities will meet Dutch and European
standards and combat the disastrous effect of
wastewater on coral reefs.
• Activities that are detrimental to the
biodiversity in the region will not be financed
with Dutch taxpayers’ money.
• Wild and stray animals living on the islands,
such as donkeys, dogs, and cats, will be given
optimal protection. Dogs and cats must be
microchipped, and the central government
will finance a sterilisation and neutering
program to reduce the number of stray
animals.
• The central government will provide sufficient
funds to look after wounded or ill animals or
other animals in need of help in specialised
shelters.
18 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021
192 Animal rights
Animals have the right to live
according to their nature
Animals are often viewed simply as ‘things’
that are secondary to the interests of
human beings. However, animals — just like
people — are conscious individuals with
feelings. We share the same habitat, yet
we can only speak of gross injustice. Many
animals suffer in deplorable circumstances
because they have been bred, traded,
used, chased away, hunted and killed by
humans. In our country each year, more
than 600 million animals die after enduring
a miserable existence in the livestock
industry, all in the name of short-term
economic profit. The Party for the Animals
wants to put an end to the exploitation of
animals. We will work towards a society
where as few animals as possible are
exploited by people.
20 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021
21Animal rights
Animals have an intrinsic value and deserve Animals in the livestock industry public. There is a large gap between the terrible figures about animals in the livestock
their due rights. A drastic re-evaluation of our truth for hundreds of millions of animals in the industry fully and clearly and publicise them
relationship with animals is also in the interest of The Party for the Animals wants to ultimately livestock and fishing industries and the positive in an accessible manner. Such statistics
human beings. For many of the world’s biggest liberate animals from the food chain. In the image portrayed to the public. Free-range eggs, will include the number of animals that die
problems — such as climate change, loss of meantime, the suffering of animals in the for example, don’t come from chickens that are prematurely in the stables or arrive dead at
biodiversity, and the depletion of the soil — the livestock industry must be limited as much as permitted to ‘range freely’ out of doors, but from the slaughterhouse after transport.
livestock industry has been shown to be one of possible. Appetising plant-based and sustainable chickens who spend their entire lives cooped up • Meat, dairy and egg products will be clearly
the biggest culprits. Moreover, the coronavirus alternatives for meat products provide hope for in an overcrowded barn. Through these sorts of marked with a label showing where the animal
crisis has demonstrated that our health is the animals and for our future. The government misleading campaigns, many consumers have involved was born, how and how long it lived
directly at risk if we keep viewing animals as must be actively involved in realising this no clue about the reality behind the product. and — in the case of meat products — where
something that we can simply catch, breed, or transition to plant-based foods as quickly as In advertisements and on the packaging, these and how the animal was slaughtered. A QR
kill. The coronavirus is a zoonoses, an illness possible. The Party for the Animals wants to animals look happy, content, and healthy. The code will appear on meat products with a
that is transferred from animals to humans. provide proper education about the suffering and same goes for, for instance, pigs, cows, lambs, stream to the slaughterhouse where the
Scientists warn that zoonoses comprise 75% deaths of animals, which is currently hidden from ducks, and rabbits. This is in stark contrast to animal was killed so consumers can judge the
of all new infectious diseases that threaten the consumers. reality. slaughtering process for themselves.
health of humankind today. Furthermore, these
types of illnesses will continue to proliferate if The Party for the Animals wants to put an end
we continue to breed and kill this many animals An end to the livestock industry to misleading information about the origins of Animals have the right to behave naturally
in the livestock industry, or if we continue to animal products. The government must ensure
trade in wild animals and keep applying pressure How animals are kept in the current livestock full disclosure and education about what The way in which animals are kept in the livestock
to our environment and the climate. Zoonoses industry is unethical and unsustainable. Many animals in the livestock industry go through industry is absolutely unacceptable. For example,
such as MRSA, Q fever, bird flu and the Mexican animals often do not even see the light of day. before their meat or their products end up on millions of ducks never even see daylight, and they
flu have already made it clear that it is in our The sheer number of animals currently raised for the supermarket shelves. Consumers have the have no water to swim or bathe in. The first time
own interest to put a stop to the exploitation meat, dairy and egg production is so enormous right to know the real story behind milk and in their lives that they see water is when they are
of animals. A safer world for animals is a safer that no single environmental or animal welfare cheese production. Journalists should also be electrocuted in a water bath. Calves and kids are
world for humans. measure can stand up to the myriad problems given better access to information about what removed from their mothers immediately after
this gives rise to. The number of animals bred happens in the livestock industry. For example, birth, so the mother’s milk can be consumed by
and killed for consumption will drastically a cow in the dairy industry is made pregnant people.
Animal rights in the Constitution decrease. We need to bring the livestock industry each year, and her calves are taken away from
to a halt as quickly as possible. her shortly after birth. The young bulls and The Party for the Animals wants the right for
Animals deserve to be treated with respect and female calves that are not kept as dairy cows are animals to behave naturally to be established by
compassion. In practice, however, animals rarely • First, the number of animals in the livestock fattened before being slaughtered to produce law. Chickens should be able to take a dust bath,
enjoy legal protection. Take, for example, stable industry will be reduced by at least 75%. veal. As Paul McCartney once aptly said: ‘If pigs should be able to root around in the ground,
fires. We have fire safety rules for the production • Legal measures will be put in place to slaughterhouses had glass walls, everyone would and cows and goats should be allowed to graze
of toilet rolls, but no rules for live animals in guarantee the fire safety of stables, such as be vegetarian.’ outside instead of being locked up in stables. The
a stable. It is an absurd political choice that a limit on the number of animals per stable, Party for the Animals wants all animals to be able
generates tens of thousands of victims each year. mandatory sprinkler or water mist installations, • There will be an end to misleading communi- to live as they would in nature, and they should be
Once animals have rights, cruelty to animals can compulsory emergency exits such as cation, euphemisms, and advertising surroun- given the space and the opportunity to do so.
be prevented or punished. retractable walls, and a ban on air washers. ding animal products.
• The government will ensure the availability • All animals in the livestock industry should be
• Animal rights will be recognised and recorded of unbiased imagery of the reality in stables, able to graze in the fields and have sufficient
in the Constitution. The real story about animal suffering in slaughterhouses and the fishing industry and shelter from weather conditions such as heat
• The Animals Act will be replaced by a more the livestock industry actively make these available to the public. and rain. In the stable, animals should have
comprehensive animal protection act, where The government will also provide high-qua- enough space, hay, and diversion. They should
the intrinsic value and the natural behaviour Every government agrees that consumers should lity, accurate public information about what be able to isolate themselves or socialise as
of animals are no longer subject to economic know where their food comes from. However, the animals go through in the name of animal they wish.
interests. everyday reality behind the production of meat, products. • Calves and lambs will no longer be taken
dairy, eggs, and fish is actively withheld from the • The government will register facts and away from their mothers after childbirth but
22 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021 ELECTORAL PROGRAM PARTY FOR THE ANIMALS PARLIAMENTARY ELECTIONS 2021
23You can also read
