The quality of Dutch waters is poor and barely improving. Water managers are pessimistic. This is apparent from data research by NRC based on public data from the Information House Water, a government organization that monitors water quality.
According to European targets, Dutch waters must be “of sufficient quality” by 2027, writes NRC. However, water managers are not convinced that this will work.
Water quality is deteriorating
Between 2015 and 2021, the water quality in two out of three Dutch waters deteriorated. The Dutch water is scoring worse and worse, especially in the areas of water temperature, water flora, concentrations of certain harmful substances, fish quality and nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus.
The Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management (I&W) attributes the decline to changing measurement methods, standards and “calamities and extreme weather conditions”, writes NRC. However, water boards also see a decline in practice, the newspaper reports. The rising water temperature and increasing drought are especially worrying.
Strict Judging Criteria
It is expected that in five years’ time only about 5 percent of the waters will meet all European standards. The Brussels assessment criteria are strict. If the quality of the water does not meet all the targets (chemical, biological, and physico-chemical), then it will receive an unsatisfactory rating.
If the water quality targets are not achieved, Brussels can impose fines and there may be consequences for the permitting of new activities, writes NRC. The comparison with the nitrogen crisis is easily made. In North Brabant, for example, a soft drink manufacturer has already been refused a permit to pump groundwater.
1.5 billion euros has been reserved for improving water quality for the coming years. According to the Ministry of Infrastructure and Water Management, achieving most goals is possible if all parties make a strong commitment NRC.