In the Netherlands, both groundwater and surface water resources are used for drinking water production. On a yearly basis, some 750 million m3 of groundwater is extracted from the soil for public water supply.

The Netherlands is on the forefront of clean drinking water supply. However, the increasing population density puts higher pressure on the environment and the water supply companies need to increase the efforts to deliver clean drinking water.

One of problems complicating the delivery of clean drinking water is the excessive use of manure. Because of excessive use of nitrate-rich manure in agriculture during previous decennia, large quantities of nitrate have leached through the soil to the groundwater. Nitrate pollution poses serious problems, especially for the water supply companies, amongst others because of heavy metals mixing with water.  Read more on problems in delivery of clean drinking water...

The Dutch water sector is renowned for its excellent reputation regarding water supply, with a ranking in the global top. In the Netherlands, the taps distribute healthy water that is chlorine-free, biologically stable and safe to drink. Leakage losses are extremely low, even compared to neighboring countries (some 3-5% on average, against 15-25% in surrounding countries).

Interesting innovations, such as membrane technology, desalination and desinfectiontechniques, are currently taking place at a number of internationally operating companies and institutions.

Several organizations are active in the field of water technology in the Netherlands. An important player is the government. In most cases, European legislation is leading for Dutch laws and implementation. The national government creates the conditions for the waterworks to supply high quality drinking water. The Water Supply Act and the corresponding Decree on the Water Supply establish the conditions to be met. The provincial government is responsible for regulation.

The waterworks in the Netherlands ensure that reliable drinking water flows from the tap 24 hours a day. A constant supply is guaranteed. They are responsible for management and quality of all pipes up to the home water meter. Home owners are responsible for the state of the water supply lines in the home. The Association of Dutch Water Companies (VEWIN) represents practically the entire Dutch (drinking) water sector.

The water boards (or District Water Control Boards) together with the Department of Public Works and Water Management are responsible for the quality and quantity of regional water in the Netherlands. The water boards monitor physical water levels in their region and discharge water if necessary. They also treat waste water, control the quality of surface water and physically maintain waterways and canals. Waterworks and water boards work together in some regions as both benefit from clean ground, clean rivers and canals. The umbrella organisation of the water boards is the Association of Dutch Water Boards (Unie van waterschappen).

Municipalities play an important role in urban water management. They are responsible for collecting and discharging waste water via the sewer system and the laying out of the urban and surrounding areas.

Read more on the website of  VEWIN