Our election program

Water is vital for every form of life

In our country, water is the foundation of a beautiful diversity of ecosystems, plant and animal species. But the state of our water is not good. In fact, we have the worst water quality in Europe. When water is in bad shape, so is nature, animals, and humans. If we want to keep the Netherlands livable for future generations, we need to make radical choices in water management. We need to learn to work with water instead of against it.

Clean & natural

The Party for the Animals is taking action. We will tackle water polluters: who wants fertilizers, hormones, and agricultural chemicals in our water? We will restore nature and give animals and plants much more space. Instead of fighting animals that cause nuisance, we opt for preventive policies that prevent damage and animal suffering. To prevent damage to nature and CO2 emissions from drought and subsidence of the soil, we can and must raise the groundwater level. Even if it means the land is no longer suitable for livestock farming. We will help farmers transition to nature-friendly agriculture. Additionally, we also want to make a strong case for reducing Schiphol airport's size, as it is a major polluter that contributes to the climate crisis.

Safe & sustainable

To protect people and animals from floods and droughts, we must help provinces and municipalities make wise choices for the layout of the landscape, public space, and buildings. The water board can also set an example for sustainability. For example, we can reuse our wastewater by extracting energy and raw materials from it. We will also focus on fossil-free energy from sun and wind, in locations that are not harmful to animals or nature.

Fair & democratic

The Party for the Animals wants a fairer water board. We advocate for a fairer and more environmentally friendly tax system, where the user and polluter pay. Additionally, we want the water board to be more democratic: only with directly elected representatives can all interests for citizens, businesses, and nature be balanced properly. All secured seats must disappear.

We need to be brave in making choices for the Rijnland water board. You can still choose now! Your vote can make the difference for a greener, cleaner, and more animal-friendly water board.

Hold on firmly to your ideals.
Choose Party for the Animals on March 15th.

Our 10 focus points:

• We actively reverse the effects of climate change and land subsidence.
• The bulb cultivation will become pesticide-free and will no longer pollute water.
• We prioritize the interests of meadow birds over those of the livestock industry. The water level should not be artificially kept low for livestock and tractors.
• We assist farmers in transitioning to nature-friendly arable farming.
• Less animal suffering! Fishing will be prohibited. Damage caused by muskrats and crayfish will be addressed in an animal-friendly manner.
• We reuse our wastewater by extracting energy and raw materials from it.
• Schiphol Airport is a major polluter and contributes to the climate crisis. Rijnland is committed to reducing the size of Schiphol.
• Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent. Heavy rainfalls and heat require more greenery and fewer tiles.
• Dredging and mowing are done with respect for animals and plants.
• Biodiversity will be restored. Dikes, road verges, and tree rows will be naturally designed with space for plants and animals.

Where and how to vote
This March 15 the Party for the Animals will participate in the majority of Water Boards (Waterschappen) and all provinces. Internationals who temporarily or permanently live in one of the participating Water Board regions can cast their vote for these water authorities.

Find more information on how and where to vote.