Groundwater quality: policy
Policy
The aim of the policy as described in the National Environmental Policy Plan 3 (VROM, 1997) and the National Environmental Policy Plan 4 (VROM, 2001) is to reduce levels of all substances. If possible, it is hoped that this aim will be achieved by 2010. In addition, groundwater is expected to meet the environmental quality objectives for the preparation of drinking water. The measures taken in this respect relate to the emissions policy and the fertiliser policy (see reference under 'Further information'). The target values for a number of substances in deeper groundwater (> 10 metres deep) have been tightened up in recent years.
In December 2000, the European Groundwater Framework Directive came into effect. It sets out the regulations for the EU member states for the protection of groundwater stocks, as well as directives for the monitoring of the quality of the groundwater.
Nitrate policy
The Netherlands aims to reduce nitrate levels in groundwater to less than 50 mg/l. The EU Nitrate Directive came into force at the end of 1991. The directive includes a limit of 170 kg/ha on the amount of nitrogen applied in manure. The Netherlands is implementing the Nitrate Directive in the mineral accounting system (MINAS) and a system of manure transfer contracts. In derogation from the Nitrate Directive, the Netherlands will apply up to 250 kg N/ha from manure to grassland. The European Commission still has to give its approval.
Groundwater quality standards
| MAC | Maximum Allowable Concentration level, a scientifically determined level of a substance indicating the concentration at which there is either no expected negative effect or a 10-6 chance of mortality. |
| Desired quality standard | A value that indicates a negligible impact on the environment. |
| Drinking water standard | Standard for the quality of drinking water. Groundwater quality is often measured against this standard (principally for pesticides) since groundwater is used in preparing drinking water. |
| EU value for nitrate | The objective of a maximum of 50 mg of nitrate per litre in water intended for human consumption is part of the EU Drinking Water Directive (1980) and is laid down in Dutch law in the 'Waterleidingbesluit'. This value has been derived from the standard used by the World Health Organization (WHO). The EU Nitrate Directive (1991) sets this value for groundwater in areas which the member states have designated as vulnerable to nitrate pollution from agricultural sources. Since the Netherlands has designated its entire land area as such, this value applies to the groundwater in the entire country. |
