News | RIVM

No reduction in number of young people with suicidal thoughts

In March 2023, 14.1% of young people in the Netherlands (aged 12-25 years) reported seriously thinking about ending their life occasionally, often or very often.

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Safe recycling of textiles possible, but still in its infancy

Textiles are produced using chemicals. Although many hazardous chemicals may no longer be used in textile production, they may still be present in donations of old clothing. RIVM has conducted a study into the safety of recycled textiles.

More than half of young adults reported experiencing mental health problems

More than half of young adults (aged 16 to 25) in the Netherlands experience mental health problems. High levels of loneliness and suicidal thoughts are also observed in this age group. This is evident from the COVID-19 Health Monitor for Young Adults 2022

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People working from home more likely to have health problems

People who worked from home during the COVID-19 pandemic were more likely to have physical complaints than people working on location (location workers). Examples included upper back pain, lower back pain, and pain in arms, neck and/or shoulders. These findings are from RIVM research.

ICER 2023: Circular targets remain out of reach

The Netherlands aims to have a fully circular economy by 2050 and halve its use of raw materials by 2030. In recent years, however, little progress has been made in either regard.

Circular economy: plastics recycling from end-of-life vehicles could be four times higher

At present, 85% of plastics from end-of-life vehicles is still incinerated. Only 15% of plastics is reused as a raw material. A survey conducted by RIVM has revealed possibilities to expand recovery of these plastics fourfold by 2030.

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.

Mental health of young people shows minor recovery

Young people (12-25 years) in the Netherlands have fewer mental health symptoms compared to the previous research round in June 2022. This is evidenced by the latest quarterly research update (September 2022) from the GOR Network.

Less greenhouse gas emissions across the supply chain: survey for policy development

The Dutch Climate Agreement contains measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the Netherlands. Many products used in the Netherlands are manufactured abroad.

Circular economy: more opportunities for reuse of slightly radioactive substances

The manufacturing of steel and pigments involves the generation of millions of kilos of slightly radioactive residues. In addition, more and more of these substances will continue to be generated in the rapidly growing sector of geothermal energy.