n 2022 the emission of greenhouse gasses was 7,9 percent lower than in 2021. This is mainly due to the high prices of natural gas. Therefore less natural gas was consumed by the industrial sector, built environment and the agricultural sector. Another factor was the mild winter compared to 2021.

Sowing flowers in arable field margins contributes to sustainable agriculture. It enhances biodiversity, and farmers need to use fewer pesticides on their crops. There are also major benefits to society, such as cleaner surface water and a more inviting landscape for recreational activities and exercising.

In 2022, the number of enteric infections – which mainly cause gastrointestinal symptoms – was higher than it was in the previous two years. However, the total number of infections was still lower than before the coronavirus pandemic.

RIVM has developed the Groundwater Risk Assessment Toolbox. This risk assessment toolbox allows local authorities to quickly determine whether a specific groundwater application is safe. They can then take action if necessary.

More and more wind turbines are being installed in the North Sea. These turbines need to be protected against corrosion (such as rust). Ways to do this include using specific metals or epoxy coatings. RIVM has calculated whether this could be harmful to humans and the environment in a worst-case scenario.

The number of ambulances needed during daytime hours on working days in the Netherlands is set to remain roughly the same. In 2024, 693 ambulances will be required to properly meet the demand for ambulance care.

In 2021, the number of Lyme disease diagnoses with a red ring or rash– known as an erythema migrans, or EM – remained as high as in the previous survey in 2017. GPs diagnosed 25,600 patients with a red ring or rash caused by the Lyme bacteria.

RIVM has measured the amount of tar, nicotine and carbon monoxide (TNCO) in all filter cigarettes sold in the Netherlands with the WHO Intense method.