National immunisation coverage has increased for the first time in five years, for almost all vaccinations. For children born in 2017, vaccination coverage against mumps, measles and rubella (MMR) increased by 0.7% to 93.6%.

When garments made from synthetic materials wear, due to use and washing, microplastic fibres are released. Wastewater treatment plants remove 50 to 90 per cent of these microplastic fibres.

For a successful circular economy, it is essential to improve the conditions in which materials and products are recycled once they have reached the end of their life cycle.

Scientific journal The Lancet Infectious Diseases has published an article on RIVM research conducted into pertussis vaccination for pregnant women.

The best synbio projects, including iGEM teams, have one thing in common: cutting edge science in the light of carefully considered societal needs.