Dutch swimming spots fail chemical safety tests, study finds

A new report by Natuur & Milieu and the NIOO-KNAW finds that no swimming water in the Netherlands meets all chemical quality standards, with locations like Gaasperplas, Nieuwe Meer, and Ouderkerkerplas heavily polluted. The study examined 262 swimming sites, finding excessive chemicals at all Amsterdam-area locations tested, including the IJmeer and Diemerpark. The Jagersplas in Zaanstad was the most polluted, with 18 substances exceeding norms, including PFOS, flame retardants, and mercury. Urban waters contain combustion-related chemicals from industry and traffic, while rural areas show pesticide pollution. Current monitoring on zwemwater.nl only tracks pathogens like blue-green algae and fecal bacteria, not chemicals. Researchers urge government action on monitoring, discharge controls, and permits.