Industry and policymakers are not availing themselves enough of the available scientific knowledge when it comes to smarter ways of dealing with plastics.

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.

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.

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.

In 2018, 22.4 per cent of the Dutch adult population indicated they were occasional smokers.

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

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.

Residues of medicinal products, such as painkillers, hormones and antidepressants, are increasingly detected in surface water and drinking water.

Construction and demolition waste are being recycled on a large scale to use as a foundation for e.g. roads, but recycled building materials are hardly ever used in the construction of buildings.

We can all help to reduce pollution of the environment by pharmaceutical residues.