Rivers, lakes, ditches, and canals are increasingly showing traces of new chemicals, with concentrations of some substances now above permitted levels. This is a concern because surface water is often used to produce drinking water, and several of these substances are difficult to remove during treatment. The National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) is therefore calling for reduced discharges.
The RIVM wants Rijkswaterstaat (the Directorate-General for Public Works and Water Management) and the regional water boards to take action against five substances. One of these is lithium, used in batteries and known to cause long-term kidney damage. Another is bromate, which can increase the risk of cancer if consumed in high amounts. The other substances identified by the institute are dibromoacetic acid, N,N-dimethylsulfamide, and trichloroacetic acid.
According to the RIVM, lowering discharges should reduce the concentrations found in surface water. These substances come from several sources, including industry, pesticides, and pharmaceutical residues.
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