The Dutch government strives to protect the population against the health risks of environmental pollution. RIVM has the expertise required to realise this aim.

Combined expertise
With its expertise on both environment and health, RIVM can assess and monitor the impact of various environmental factors on the health of the Dutch population on national and regional levels. This expertise is essential in advising the Dutch government on the risks to public health and in underpinning appropriate actions and measures to counter adverse environmental impacts. 

Relationship between environment and public health
RIVM carries out environmental monitoring and population studies in the Netherlands in an effort to establish the relationship between the environment and public health (in Dutch only). Computer models and methods are developed at the RIVM for use estimating and predicting potential environmental impacts on public health. In addition, RIVM is a focal point for medical (in Dutch only) and environmental expertise for the Municipal Health Services and carries out studies and investigations for other government authorities.

Environmental emergencies
RIVM assesses the environmental impacts on public health caused by exceptional circumstances such as accidents and disasters. On the basis of environmental monitoring and modelling, RIVM advises the Dutch government on measures to prevent and reduce risks to human health. In the event of a disaster, RIVM advises on the usefulness and necessity of a health impact assessment (in Dutch only) and/or offers support in the design, set-up or carrying out of the study.