The environment plays a major role in politics and policy making in all cities of the Netherlands. Although not as environmentally aware as Germany, the situation is improving. Being geographically downwind and downstream from everybody else in Europe creates a unique pollution position for the Netherlands, with the potential of toxic chemicals ending up on Dutch beaches either via the Rhine or from North Sea oil drilling. Climate change is a key issue on which Dutch governments have lobbied successfully in Europe and long-term energy policy is focused on affordable, sustainable sources (including nuclear). Amsterdam's environmental policy is drawn up every four years and covers noise and air pollution, and the use of sustainable materials. Policies are also directed at ensuring people have a pleasant environment in which to live, like testing 'silencers' on the wheels of trams to make them quieter when going round corners. Amsterdam is fully implementing the Kyoto Protocol measures to reduce the annual emissions of carbon dioxide (CO2 ) by 500 kilotons in 2007.