According to the Dutch National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM), these substances originate from industry, pesticides, and pharmaceutical residues. These chemical substances are difficult to remove from water through filtration. However, if fewer of these substances were discharged into the environment, their concentrations in water sources should also decrease.

Chemical substances in Dutch drinking water

The RIVM has called on Rijkswaterstaat and the regional water authorities to take action regarding five specific substances. One of these is lithium, best known as a component in batteries. Long-term exposure to lithium may damage the kidneys.

Another substance on the list is bromate, which can increase the risk of cancer when consumed in excessive amounts. The RIVM has also expressed concerns about dibromoacetic acid, N,N-dimethylsulfamide, and trichloroacetic acid. Although much is still unknown about these substances, concerns about their potential health effects are growing.

A call for stricter measures

Dutch water authorities have been advocating stricter controls on the discharge of chemical substances for some time. They work daily to purify surface water for households and businesses but indicate that this process is becoming increasingly complex and expensive.

The RIVM therefore hopes for a joint approach in which manufacturers, users, and regulatory authorities take greater responsibility for reducing chemical emissions into the environment.

Source: Metro News Netherlands, 11 February 2026.

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