In many places, the groundwater and surface water still contains too much nitrogen and phosphorus. As a result, the Netherlands is failing to meet the targets of the European Nitrates Directive.

In the Netherlands, we derive our drinking water from two sources: groundwater and river water. In many areas, the quality of this water is not adequate. The measures taken to improve the quality have yet to yield significant direct effects.

RIVM has developed the Groundwater Risk Assessment Toolbox. This risk assessment toolbox allows local authorities to quickly determine whether a specific groundwater application is safe. They can then take action if necessary.

The demand for drinking water will increase until at least 2030. The supply is under strain due to climate change and pollution. There are already regional shortages. If measures are not taken, shortages will occur throughout the Netherlands in 2030.

Evidence suggests that existing standards for some of these substances do not sufficiently protect the ecosystem. For others, no standards exist yet or the existing standards are outdated. If these

Soil use is becoming increasingly intensive. From use for agriculture and housing construction to recreation and infrastructure. At the same time, we also depend on the soil-watersystem for a healthy living environment, restore biodiversity, countering climate change, energy transition, absorption of rainwater and keeping groundwater clean.

Drug waste contains substances that are harmful to the quality of drinking water. Because this waste is dumped illegally, these substances can end up in sources of drinking water.

In a circular economy, building materials have a longer life cycle and are reused in innovative ways. Reusing building materials is sustainable, but can also be risky as building materials may contain contaminants such as heavy metals.

Nitrate leaching on ‘derogation farms’ has risen in recent years, most likely due to the drought experienced throughout the Netherlands in 2018 and regionally in both 2019 and 2020.

Pressure drainage can in some cases help to reduce CO2 emissions in peatland areas. This intervention is very expensive and only cost-effective when it sufficiently reduces CO2 emissions.