supervision water quality
By 2027, all EU member states must comply with the objectives of the Water Framework Directive. In our region, water quality is not yet up to standard everywhere. "The final steps require a major effort from all of us, including the water board in its supervision," says Richard van Diepen, enforcement advisor.
Van Diepen: "The first version of the Framework Directive dates back to 2000. It stipulates that surface water must be in good chemical and ecological condition. And although much progress has been made in recent years, we still have a long way to go. Businesses will have to take the necessary measures, and HHNK requires adequate supervision."
How does HHNK fulfill its supervisory role?
Van Diepen: "As a water authority, the Hollands Noorderkwartier Water Board (HHNK) supervision all discharges supervision surface water. Of course, we are enforcers, but we also invest in communication and advice. In our opinion, this leads to greater knowledge and understanding. This not only benefits water quality, but also the relationship between businesses and the water board. And this is more relevant than ever, now that we only have four years left to achieve the goal of clean surface water."
There is a growing public demand for stricter enforcement. Is HHNK now placing less emphasis on this?
"On the contrary. Enforcement is an indispensable tool in supervision. We use it when there is intent or when entrepreneurs are negligent. However, if you only play the role of police officer, you overlook what else you can do. In our view, it is a both-and story. That is why we also invest heavily in communication and advice. There has already been a lot of national coverage of the applicable laws and regulations. We also talk to entrepreneurs at the many information meetings in our area. Of course, we use social media, the regional press, and now also this newsletter to inform entrepreneurs about the tools available to improve water quality."
Aren't you afraid of coming across as soft?
"No, definitely not. As I said, we enforce the law when necessary. We also help businesses where we can. And they appreciate that. With this approach, we respond to their need to contribute to clean surface water and soil. For example, our enforcement officers advise entrepreneurs on the measures they can take if they are not yet in compliance with the laws and regulations. We also regularly refer them to the Agriculture Portal, where entrepreneurs can obtain independent advice free of charge the first time. With this combination of enforcement, communication, and advice, we expect to be able to use our supervision best supervision to ensure good water quality and achieve the WFD objectives."