News | RIVM

RIVM to begin systematic measuring of ultrafine particles in 2023

In 2023, RIVM will take systematic measurements of ultrafine particles in the outside air for the first time. This is necessary because little is known at present about ultrafine particles and their potential health effects. Ultrafine particles must be measured with different equipment than that usually used for particulate matter.

European air quality limit values can be met if proposed policy measures are implemented

In 2022, the European Commission introduced a proposal for stricter air quality standards. With existing policy measures, the air quality in most of the Netherlands will meet these requirements by 2030.

Brief decline in air quality over Easter

RIVM expects the air quality to be poor or very poor for a brief period over Easter, particularly in areas where Easter fires are lit. This is because the burning of wood leads to high local concentrations of particulate matter in the air. These high concentrations may cause health problems. People affected by these problems are advised to avoid strenuous physical activity.

Slight increase in greenhouse gasses in 2021

In 2021, greenhouse gas emissions were 1.8% higher than the year before. This marked the first time emissions had gone up since 2016. In 2020, emissions declined by 8.8%. The 2021 increase is largely attributable to CO2 and to the cold winter.

Air quality in the Netherlands in 2021 almost the same as in 2020

In 2021, the Netherlands once again met the European limit values for nitrogen dioxide emitted at ground-level by road traffic. This was also the case for particulate matter along the roads, with the exception of a small stretch of road near Velsen.

Breast cancer screening resumes on Bonaire after COVID-19 hiatus

Women aged 50 to 75 years on Bonaire can participate in the breast cancer screening programme again as of Wednesday, May 26, 2021. This was temporarily halted in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

EU air policy gives an average of 6 extra years of life in the Netherlands

Since the 1970s, European policies to improve air quality have resulted in fewer emissions in many countries.

A guide for the safe reuse of diaper and incontinence materials

RIVM has developed a step-by-step plan for the safe reuse of diapers and incontinence material. This plan provides recyclers and licensing authorities with tools to carry out a risk assessment.

Young people who use screens before sleeping have more sleep problems

Young people (13-18 years) who use light-emitting screens daily in the hour before going to sleep have more sleep problems.

Dutch air quality shows little improvement in 2017

In 2017, concentrations of nitrogen dioxide and particulate matter in most parts of the Netherlands were below European limit values.