National Institute for Public Health and the Environment (RIVM)

RIVM works towards a healthy population and a sustainable, safe and healthy environment. We pursue those goals through research and advice, and by collecting and applying knowledge.

Animal-free methods fort he safety of humans, animals and the environment

Chemicals and medicines should be safe for humans, animals and ecosystems. Currently, chemical safety assessments predominantly involve animal experiments. New knowledge and technologies enable the development of new animal-free methods that can replace or reduce animal experiments. RIVM works on the development of and advises about these alternatives to animal testing towards reliable safety assessment. The aim is to improve the health and safety of people, animals and the environment.

Research, advise and sharing knowledge

RIVM conducts laboratory research into animal-free methods to test the harmful effects of chemical substances on the human body. We are also working on computer models for predicting the effects of chemical substances in humans, animals and the environment. In addition, we advise the government on the use of new methods in the assessment of safety and risks of chemical substances. We share our knowledge in various national and international organisations and committees involved in acceptance and uptake of new research methods in regulations. We perform these activities from our unique position, as it is involved in every step in the chain of research, policy and regulations from where we can identify, advise, share knowledge and contribute to decision-making.

Interdisciplinary collaborations and good overview of the international field

RIVM has been involved in TPI from the start. We contribute to TPI by developing and sharing knowledge on the requirements for the application of animal-free innovations in safety assessments. We achieve this by forging interdisciplinary collaborations and maintaining a good overview of the international field. For this purpose, we have - for example - mapped out the NAM landscapes for the safety assessment of chemical substances and pharmaceuticals. These landscapes offer insight into the steps towards implementation of NAMs and the stakeholders involved in each step. We have also developed TPI.tv, a learning online exchange network where (young) professionals can post videos about animal-free innovations.

Examples:

All TPI-partners