About Steven Kelderman

Steven Kelderman is a researcher and advisor in the field of surface water quality and ecology. With a background in ecology and a strong interest in data science, he focuses on analyzing substances in water such as nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus) and heavy metals, as well as on the ecological relationships within the Dutch water system. His work operates at the intersection of ecology, chemistry, modelling, and policy, with the EU Water Framework Directive (WFD) serving as an important framework for his analyses and recommendations.

In projects such as the KRW-Tussenevaluatie, Emissieregistratie, and KRW-NUtrend, Steven processes and analyzes monitoring data from various sources, including national monitoring networks and model calculations. He identifies long-term trends, spatial patterns, and local bottlenecks, addressing policy-relevant questions such as where water quality objectives are not yet met, what the possible sources or emission routes are, and which measures are most effective in a given region.

To support evidence-based policy decisions, Steven uses analytical tools like the WFD-Explorer and D-EcoImpact. These allow him to simulate policy scenarios, quantify the expected effects of measures, and provide insight into their effectiveness at the system level. His work contributes to ambitious goals such as a robust, resilient, and clean water system. “For me, it’s important to make complex information accessible to a broader audience, so the message truly resonates and supports better understanding and decision-making,” says Steven.

Steven works for clients such as Rijkswaterstaat and the Ministry of Infrastructuur and Waterstaat. His strength lies in making complex data and models understandable, enabling policymakers and water managers to make well-informed choices and achieve sustainable improvements in water quality. Outside of work, he is curious and always looking for innovative ways to connect data to societal impact.