Inside the Netherlands’ Water Monitoring Success Story
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By
February 11, 2026
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6 min
The Netherlands has developed an efficient water quality monitoring system utilizing high-performance liquid chromatography with diode array detection (HPLC-DAD). This innovative approach acts as an early warning network for detecting pollutants, crucial for protecting surface waters. Researchers from KWR Water Research Institute detail the evolution of the method from a simple analytical technique to a national platform, emphasizing harmonization, shared databases, and swift responses to contamination incidents, like the pyrazole case. Such strategies may serve as a model for other nations.
1. The Netherlands developed an HPLC-DAD based water monitoring system for pollutants. 2. The system provides rapid alerts and is easy to use. 3. The pyrazole incident in 2015 showcased its effectiveness. 4. Method harmonization enables data sharing across labs. 5. HPLC-DAD focuses on UV-active compounds; it's not a substitute for MS techniques. 6. Collaboration with various stakeholders essential for system success. 7. Future expansions aim to include more participants in water monitoring.
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