News | RIVM

New risk limits for 18 pesticides in surface water

Evidence suggests that existing standards for some of these substances do not sufficiently protect the ecosystem. For others, no standards exist yet or the existing standards are outdated. If these

RIVM describes building blocks of future-proof soil strategy

Soil use is becoming increasingly intensive. From use for agriculture and housing construction to recreation and infrastructure. At the same time, we also depend on the soil-watersystem for a healthy living environment, restore biodiversity, countering climate change, energy transition, absorption of rainwater and keeping groundwater clean.

More attention needed for potential impact of drug waste on drinking water quality

Drug waste contains substances that are harmful to the quality of drinking water. Because this waste is dumped illegally, these substances can end up in sources of drinking water.

Potential effects of the reuse of building material on soil quality

In a circular economy, building materials have a longer life cycle and are reused in innovative ways. Reusing building materials is sustainable, but can also be risky as building materials may contain contaminants such as heavy metals.

Nitrate leaching on derogation farms in sandy regions continues to rise

Nitrate leaching on ‘derogation farms’ has risen in recent years, most likely due to the drought experienced throughout the Netherlands in 2018 and regionally in both 2019 and 2020.

Pressure drainage can be a cost-effective technology to reduce CO2 emissions in peatland areas

Pressure drainage can in some cases help to reduce CO2 emissions in peatland areas. This intervention is very expensive and only cost-effective when it sufficiently reduces CO2 emissions.

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.

Call for global action plan to save our oceans

Scientists involved in the Seas Oceans and Public Health In Europe (SOPHIE) Project have proposed the first steps towards a united global plan to save our oceans, for the sake of human health.

Andrzej-kryszpiniuk

Possible health risks due to exposure to chromium-6 at tROM project Tilburg

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.

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.