VM was founded at the Free University Amsterdam (VUA) in 1971. Since 2002, IVM has been a part of the newly formed Faculty of Earth and Life Sciences (Dutch acronym FALW), together with Earth Sciences and Biology.

Being the oldest environmental research institute in the Netherlands, the IVM has built up considerable experience in dealing with the complexity of environmental issues. Its purpose is to contribute to the sustainability of societies and the rehabilitation and preservation of the environment through academic research. IVM addresses challenging environmental problems and offers both pragmatic and innovative solutions.

1. The Institute focuses on the following four core programmes:
2. measurement techniques and strategies;
3. analysis and management of the spatial component of the environment;
4. industrial transformation; and
5. international environmental agreements within the North-South relationship.