News | RIVM

RIVM calls for increased involvement of scientific community in solving plastic crisis

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

Method for safe and sustainable 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.

Spread of tick-borne encephalitis virus in the Netherlands

Every year about 1.5 million ticks bite someone in the Netherlands, especially between March and October. Most people will not get sick of that.

A guide for the safe reuse of diaper and incontinence materials

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.

Emphasising safety and sustainability in circular design

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.

New test has no added value in Lyme disease of the central nervous system

Active Lyme disease of the central nervous system cannot be detected with an ELISpot test.

Lyme disease costs EUR 20 million annually

The societal costs of Lyme disease have been determined for the Netherlands for the first time. The disease appears to cost nearly EUR 20 million each year.

Lab tests alone not conclusive for diagnosis of Lyme disease

Lyme disease can cause a variety of complaints in patients. Laboratory tests for the disease can support medical practitioners in making a diagnosis but are not necessarily conclusive.

Need for circular use of materials in construction

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.

Major loss of healthy life years due to long-term complaints after Lyme disease

The Netherlands is the first country where the burden of disease due to Lyme disease has been determined.