Evaluation of the Dutch implementation of the nitrates directive, the water framework directive and the national emission ceilings directive

Highlights• Groundwater and surface water quality improved but with current policies targets will not be met.• Nutrient policies are costly for agriculture but have generated net-benefits for society.• More targets can be reached with a mix of national policies and regional mitigation measures.• In certain regions, political choices have to be made between ecology and competitive agriculture.