Dutch government pays 163 million euros to stop gas extraction under Wadden Sea

The Dutch government has agreed to pay 163 million euros to halt gas extraction under the Wadden Sea near Ternaard. This decision aims to protect the vulnerable natural environment of the UNESCO World Heritage site. The payment compensates companies, including Shell and ExxonMobil, shareholders of the Nederlandse Aardolie Maatschappij (NAM), for relinquishing their gas extraction rights. Concerns over potential environmental damage and rising sea levels influenced the government's decision. This agreement resolves a long-standing issue, with environmental groups and the State Supervision of Mines having previously advised against the project. Gas extraction has occurred in the Wadden Sea region since 1980.