Nitrogen: Vicoma Successfully Performs Nitrogen Calculations

The 2019 ruling by the Council of State on the Nitrogen Action Program (PAS) aims to create a green, climate-resilient Netherlands. It is not only the agricultural sector that must take measures; the construction sector must also perform calculations to obtain permits. This applies not only to new buildings or factories but also to major renovation projects. For nitrogen-emitting activities, it must be demonstrated that the additional nitrogen released has no negative effects on the so-called Natura 2000 areas.

Nitrogen During the Construction and Operational Phases

During the construction of a building project, increased nitrogen emissions result, among other things, from the use of construction equipment and the delivery of materials. Nitrogen-related damage may also occur in completed projects. In the built environment, residents will contribute to an increase in traffic, while in factories, operating machinery can affect emissions. Therefore, for both the construction and occupancy phases, a calculation is required to demonstrate that emissions remain within the nitrogen limit. This is necessary to obtain a permit.

But how do you get started?

Calculations are performed using the AERIUS Calculator. Based on models, the RIVM’s calculation program determines the emissions and, subsequently, the deposition that occurs. In this case, deposition refers to nitrogen deposition in surrounding Natura 2000 areas. For example, what are the nitrogen impacts of building a new residential neighborhood, including traffic during construction? What is the difference between the current situation at a business or factory and plans for new construction or renovation? The results of the nitrogen calculation are then exported and used in the permit application.

Many parameters

It sounds pretty simple, but the reality is quite different. For example, the AERIUS manual is over a hundred pages long, and it takes expertise to navigate it. Depending on the type of project, specific data is also required. For construction projects, for example, this includes an inventory of the mobile machinery used, along with all available technical specifications and the estimated number of movements they will perform. Traffic to and from the construction site also plays a role.

For industrial facilities where forced thermal plume rise occurs, the exit temperature, velocity, and source diameter are required. These are just two simple examples, while there are countless situations, each with its own specific characteristics and parameters. In other words, every project requires a customized approach. Vicoma Consultancy & Engineering can guide companies through this process, allowing them to remain focused on their core business.

More Than Just Nitrogen Calculations

In its reports, Vicoma provides insight into both the construction phase and the operational phase of the project. After creating the calculation model, the results are submitted to the municipality or province with a clear justification. If the nitrogen levels remain below the threshold value, a permit for the work can be issued under the zoning plan.

Vicoma’s strength lies in the fact that it does more than just perform calculations. Thanks to its technical knowledge and engineering expertise, Vicoma can also collaborate with clients to find solutions. If nitrogen calculations yield unfavorable results—for example, due to a location adjacent to or within a Natura 2000 area—Vicoma investigates which options have not yet been utilized. Vicoma’s multidisciplinary team has gained extensive experience and knowledge in sectors where high nitrogen emissions occur. This enables the team to devise solutions that use internal and external offsetting to still meet the threshold requirement. Whether it involves calculations for a production plant, the construction of residential units, or other activities that release nitrogen, Vicoma is happy to assist you.