In a circular economy, products, materials and raw materials are continually reused. For example, consumer products like clothes, packaging and toys.

According to the National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM) there needs to be a greater (international) focus on, and increased awareness of, the safe recycling of waste.

The method developed by RIVM to assess whether waste treatment is sufficiently safe and sustainable, can contribute to the European ambitions for a safe and more circular economy.

As of 7 December 2020, RIVM has become a knowledge partner of the international Platform for Accelerating the Circular Economy (PACE).

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) may spread Legionella via the air and cause pneumonia if people inhale them.

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.

If you work on a circular solution or products, you can get lost in the complexity of quality labels, marketing strategies, advice and prohibitions.

A stronger focus on safety, health and sustainability is needed in designing circular products. When basic resources are re-used in new products, health risks should be avoided.

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.

Research by RIVM shows that the participants in the so-called tROM project, their supervisors and other people involved may have been exposed to chromium-6.