6 fascinating facts about Netherlands that show it as the future country
Netherlands has always fascinated the world with its ambitious projects. Apart from its scenic beauty there are certain projects that amaze and impress people around the world. Here are a few facts that make it one of the most wonderful countries across the globe, and also prove that it is the country of the future.
1. The world’s first solar-powered bike lane is in Netherlands
The project called ‘SolaRoad’ is the result of a collaboration between the government, private sector, and academia. Its length is just 100 m. The first part of the path was opened in 2015. The solar power from the road is used for lighting the streets and charging electric vehicles.
2. Charging points for electric cars are located within 50 m distance and authorities are going to ban the sales of gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles
Netherlands is attempting to stop using gasoline and diesel-powered vehicles. That’s why many charging points were opened for citizens who drive electric cars. By 2025, petrol and diesel cars will no longer be available in the Netherlands. Besides, the owners of alternative-fuel cars don’t have to pay a private motor vehicle tax. As a result of this, the environmentally friendly cars became 15,000 euros cheaper.
3. A town where nobody drives cars
In the beginning of the 1980s, 4,000 citizens of the Houten town made the decision to encourage everybody in the town to start cycling more rather than constantly using cars. And, step by step, all the citizens got used to riding bikes. The Dutch town of Houten is considered to be the safest place in the world.
4. There are ecoducts — wildlife crossings for animals living in the forests
One of the primary tasks of the Dutch government is to protect the wild animals. Therefore, several wildlife crossings were constructed to allow the animals to cross roadways safely from one part of the forest to another.
5. Due to a lack of prisoners Netherlands is closing its prison
The Dutch government started to take serious steps to reduce crime in the country, and the results turned out to be very successful. Owing to a lack of prisoners, 19 prisons have been closed since 2009.
6. The only country where there are no abandoned pets
It was officially confirmed recently that there are no homeless cats and dogs in Netherlands. In an attempt to ensure dogs’ rights, the authorities made strict laws against animal abuse. The government managed to do this without doing any harm to the animals.