Substances of very high concern (SVHC) can hamper the safe recycling of waste streams in the Netherlands. These substances occur in a wide range of waste streams.

Health effects due to exposure to titanium dioxide nanoparticles via food, food supplements and toothpaste cannot be excluded.

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.

Both regulators and manufacturers need to evaluate and manage consumer health risks that may be posed by the use of nanomaterials in cosmetics.

The application of nanotechnology to design and produce medical devices is increasing. RIVM provides an overview of nanotechnology enabled medical devices.

Companies, authorities and scientists can save time, money and test animals in the risk assessment of nanomaterials by using available data.

The currently existing models and techniques provide insufficient certainties in the assessment of the harmfulness of nanoparticles and nanomaterials to people and the environment.

RIVM contributes to the safe use of nanomaterials through research, alerts and policy consultations, and this work is demonstrated in a short informative film.

RIVM will be working alongside a consortium of 23 international partners on a safe design for ‘new’ nanoparticles.

Nanotechnology offers improved options for the diagnosis and treatment of cancer.