What measures is Amsterdam taking to combat 'tourism pollution'

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, which is visited by over 20 million tourists annually, will reduce the number of passenger ships arriving in the city and tourist boats visiting its canals by half in order to combat "tourism pollution."

At the Cruise Passenger Terminal (PTA) near the Central Train Station, a maximum of 100 ships will be allowed to dock per year. Currently, the annual number of passenger ships arriving at the terminal is around 190.

Passenger ships not permitted to dock in Amsterdam will be redirected to Rotterdam.

This decision will come into effect starting in 2026.

The Amsterdam City Council has also decided to reduce the number of tourist boats visiting the canals by half as part of the plan.