News | RIVM

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.

From 1 June 2022, heel prick test also screens for muscle disease SMA, bringing number of screened diseases to 26

From 1 June 2022, the heel prick test for Dutch newborns will also screen for spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). SMA is a serious hereditary muscle condition. Detecting this disease at an early stage enables early treatment.

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.

Air quality Sint Maarten landfill

At the beginning of 2019, the RIVM measured the air quality around the landfill at Philipsburg, Sint Maarten for two weeks. No or hardly any harmful substances were measured.

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.

RIVM will make measurements around the Sint Maarten landfill

From 21 January 2019, a team from RIVM will travel to Sint Maarten to make measurements and take samples at various locations around the landfill in Philipsburg.

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.

Climate change, ozone depletion and air quality need to be addressed coherently

Ozone layer depletion, air pollution and climate change need to be addressed in connection with each other.

Blood spot test extended as of 1 January 2017 to include two more disorders

As of 1 January 2017, the disorders alpha and beta thalassaemia will be added to the neonatal blood spot (‘heel prick’) screening programme.