The Netherlands, like the other industrialized countries in the northern hemisphere, is faced with increas ing environmental pro blems. Being a country rich in water - at least in terms of surface area - and low-lying, problems related to water are as old as the nation itself. The problems in regard to water quality are becoming more acute and complicated due to the progressive rise in air and ground pollution. Glaring examples are the acid rains and contamination of ground-water resources by toxic, and often illegal, waste dumps. Being a delta country, the Netherlands is also very vulnerable...