THE DUTCH GOVERNMENT’S PLAN TO SAVE DRINKING WATER INCLUDES RECYCLING GREY WATER
Drinking Water Policies
In 2012, the Netherlands adopted a Drinking Water Policy for 2021-2026 aimed at ensuring good quality and sufficient drinking water for all Dutch people. Adapted in 2022, this policy establishes a collaboration between the central government, local authorities, drinking water companies, and stakeholders to promote responsible drinking water use.
Context
Periods of drought and limitations in the expansion capacities of water companies have highlighted concerns about the future availability of drinking water.
Growing Population and Increasing Demand
The demand for drinking water is expected to be higher in 2030 than in 2020, requiring an additional production capacity of 100 million m³ annually. Population growth and the construction of 900,000 new homes by 2030 increase the demand for drinking water, while climate change reduces the availability of clean water.
National Plan of Action to Save Drinking Water (NPvA)
The NPvA aims to achieve the objectives of the 2021-26 policy and meet the projected demands for 2030. It proposes measures to reduce drinking water consumption, including changing consumer behaviors, valuing water, retention, storage, and recovery.
Objectives of the Plan
- Reduce per capita drinking water consumption to 100 liters per day by 2035 (currently 125 liters).
- Reduce drinking water consumption by large-scale consumers by 20%.
- Make water-conscious construction the norm for new buildings and renovations by 2035.
- Limit the use of drinking water for low-value applications.
Households
Households, responsible for 74% of drinking water consumption in 2020, are targeted for water savings. Major uses are showers (41%), toilet flushing (29%), and washing machines (18%). Initiatives such as shorter showers, effective communication about water use, and smart meters are proposed for 2024-25 and beyond.
New Construction and Renovation
By 2035, water-conscious construction should become the norm, with the integration of rainwater and greywater collection systems. These systems could save 30 to 48 liters of drinking water per person per day, with costs ranging from 4,000 to 7,000 euros per system.
Professional Users
Professional users are diverse and require tailored solutions. Benchmarks for different sectors will be established to define target consumption values. Water-saving measures for new buildings and renovations will be considered for professional users.
Research and Collaboration
Research will be conducted to assess the effects of pricing and taxation on reducing drinking water use. The use of data science and smart meters will help optimize the drinking water network and identify possible improvements.
Conclusion
The plan emphasizes the need for cooperation between the government, provinces, municipalities, water boards, consumers, drinking water companies, and the construction and installation sector. It recognizes that achieving the goals requires a long-term commitment and continuous adjustments based on new ideas and developments.
Call to Action
The plan encourages the sharing of innovations and research results on water technology. Aquatech exhibitors are invited to update their company profiles with their latest press releases for free exposure.
Text taken from a publication by Aquatech Online.