RIVM wants the government to take action quickly to maintain the drinking water supply in the Netherlands. According to the national institute, the availability of drinking water is already under regional pressure and this could apply to the whole of the Netherlands in 2030 if nothing is done about it.
If nothing is done, all 10 drinking water companies are expected to have a shortage by 2030. There are sometimes already shortages in Gelderland, Overijssel, the west of South Holland and Groningen.
According to the RIVM, the solutions are feasible, but they must be started quickly. “It is necessary to actively search for new areas to extract drinking water now.” The RIVM also sees a bone of contention here, as more water used as drinking water means that other water users can use less water. Water extraction also takes up a lot of space. RIVM therefore wants the government to determine the interests of agriculture, shipping, industry, recreation and nature.
In order to continue to meet the demand for drinking water, the government must focus on several solutions, says RIVM. The institute wants more usable water sources. In addition, stocks must be increased and it must become possible to retain water for longer. “For example, by structurally storing more water in the dunes or basins. This can be used during peak demand in the summer.” In addition, drinking water companies can work together better and exchange more water at peak times.