Danish fishermen back new deal to cut nitrogen pollution from wastewater, but call for urgent action in Limfjorden, says the DFA Chairman
Industry applauds move to cut nitrogen emissions, but warns more action needed — especially in Limfjorden
Danish fishermen have welcomed a new political agreement on wastewater management, calling it a long-overdue step in addressing the oxygen depletion crisis threatening the country’s coastal waters and marine life.
The deal, announced yesterday, is an extension of the Danish Government’s broader Green Tripartite Agreement and will reduce nitrogen emissions by an estimated 572 tonnes per year. The agreement imposes stricter treatment requirements on 24 wastewater treatment plants and will target emissions affecting 16 fjords and coastal areas. The cost will be funded by an increase in wastewater charges, ranging from DKK 29 to 268 per household in the 22 affected municipalities.
Svend-Erik Andersen, Chairman of the Danish Fishermen’s Association, praised the move as “decisive” and said it addresses a pressure point fishermen have flagged for years.
“It is positive that Denmark is finally tackling the wastewater issue,” he said. “We’ve been pointing to this for a long time, because oxygen depletion is the biggest threat to coastal fisheries. This kind of targeted action is crucial.”
Action welcomed in Bælthavet, not blame on trawling
Among the areas set to benefit from the wastewater reductions is the Bælthavet region — a key fishing area where oxygen depletion has been particularly severe. Andersen said he was encouraged that politicians were finally focusing on the real environmental pressures rather than scapegoating the fishing industry.
“It’s good to see action on nitrogen pollution in Bælthavet,” he said. “Experts are clear that oxygen depletion is the main pressure in that area, and banning trawling would not result in more fish. This kind of response shows a willingness to address what actually matters.”
More needed, especially on untreated overflow and Limfjorden
While welcoming the agreement, Andersen stressed that this must only be the beginning of a broader clean-up effort. He urged the government to tackle wastewater overflows, which occur when untreated sewage is released during heavy rainfall or system failures — a known source of highly concentrated pollution.
“There is definitely a need to address wastewater overflow,” he said. “This kind of pollution is far worse because it hasn’t been treated at all. It’s good to see that further measures are being planned.”
Andersen also expressed disappointment that the Limfjorden area was not included in the new plan, despite its ongoing struggle with severe oxygen depletion.
“There’s still no focus on Limfjorden, and that’s deeply concerning,” he said. “We urgently need action there too. The situation in the Limfjord is critical and demands real attention.”
Source: Press Release
