The government’s plans to curb climate change and cut carbon dioxide emissions have again been criticised by a coalition party – this time by Christian Democrat politicians.

The leaders of the 12 CDA teams fighting the provincial elections in March say the strategy misses ‘realism and common sense’ when it comes to putting the ideas into practice.

They have written an open letter in the Telegraaf outlining their objections and pointing out that the environment is a key issue in the forthcoming vote.

While the campaign leaders say they support the aims of the Paris agreement, they say four key conditions need to be met for a definitive agreement on reducing CO2 emissions by 49% in 2030, compared with 1990.

‘A successful approach to the climate should be supported rather than forced through,’ they point out, arguing that the debate is now dominated by loud-mouthed supporters and critics.

In addition, people have real concerns about who will foot the bill for the plans. Many people, they argue, cannot afford an electric car or to insulate their houses to the high standards needed to stop using gas heating.

The time frame is also too short to realise all the proposals and the Netherlands’ decision to go it alone in setting tougher targets than the rest of Europe will have an impact on the economy and the country’s competitive position, they say.

MPs are due to debate the climate plans, presented at the end of last year after nine months of talks, later on Tuesday. Five separate groups worked on the plans, covering mobility, electricity, industry, agriculture and the built environment.

Earlier, Klaas Dijkhoff, leader of the parliamentary VVD, cast doubt over the viability of the agreement, saying ‘the chances of me carrying out this agreement in the literal sense is zero.’