Stakeholder workshop – Atmospheric deposition of chemicals in Dutch nature conservation areas (CS6)
Nature conversation areas are not safe from atmospheric deposition.
On 3 June 2024, an online workshop was organised in the Netherlands for Case Study 6, organised and chaired by RIVM. There were participants from two Dutch nature and environmental organisations and two water boards (with other participants not able to attend the workshop but expressing their continuing interest). The goals of the workshop were, among others,
to explore to what extent the participants think that pesticides (and other chemicals) are a problem in nature conservation areas
to share insights from studies that have been done in the Netherlands
to discuss who the participants consider having the responsibility and/or means to act and to take measures.
The impression of the participants was that the impact of pollution in nature conservation areas could be underestimated. However, there is little data about the presence of chemical substances in nature conservation areas. Ecologists are currently focusing more on factors like habitat loss and desiccation, while water boards are giving increased attention to eutrophication and (hydro)morphology/design. There is a need for more insight into the sources and risks of chemicals in nature conservation areas. Nature and biodiversity should also be included in risk assessment procedures.
Together the participants drafted a list of relevant Dutch stakeholders to involve in future workshops and activities.