Pollution of surface water in the Netherlands by non-point sources

Non point sources give a spread emission of pollutants to the (surface) water (examples are agriculture and traffic). Non-point sources have been recognised as a factor of great importance to the Duthch surface water. For a number of substances emissions from non- point sources are larger than from industrial sources. The relative imporance of certain non-point sources varies from region to region. Research projects are carried out to improve our knowledge in this field. The results of one of these studies -leaching of impregnated wood- ared described. Especially leaching of As and fluoranthene appears to be of importance. Measures to eliminate emissions from non-point sources are elaborated. However, in view of the high costs involved, implementation of these measures depends strongly on the political and social acceptance.