What exactly are nanoparticles? What is meant by “exposure”? When do toxicologists speak of a risk? This and many more questions regarding research on safety aspects of nanomaterials are answered here: www.nanoobjects.info
The EU FP7 project NANoREG and H20202 project ProSafe have recently published a white paper titled “Towards a more effective and efficient governance and regulation of nanomaterials” summarising in a nutshell the aims, efforts and results of the projects. Both projects were driven by the need to reduce uncertainty in the regulatory assessment of the Environmental Health and Safety aspects of nanomaterials, in order to support a climate where the innovative potential of nanotechnology can be fully exploited. The document provides recommendations for policymakers and regulators aimed at a more effective and cost-efficient assessment of nanomaterials in a regulatory context.
Amongst others, the recommendations include proposals for what is called “no regret measures” such as further harmonisation of test methods by the OECD and proposals for a more efficient use of the results of nanosafety projects by improving the infra structure for data management. Other recommendations are aimed at making REACH more applicable for nanomaterials. For the long term, some possibilities for innovation in risk assessment are presented. They are aimed at speeding up the process of risk assessment, reducing costs and reducing animal testing. Finally, the White Paper introduces a recommendation to start thinking and working on more future proof approaches to secure the safety of materials. Approaches that would also fit next generation (nano)materials.
Information on the sponsorship programmes of the German Federal Ministry of Education and Research on nanotechnologies for humans and the environment.
A database with important and generally understandable aspects on health and environment of applied nanomaterials as well as facts on the safety of manufactured nanomaterials.
The chapters on release, exposure, uptake and behavior of nanomaterials in the human body and in the environment as well as the risk assessment will give you a first overview.
Mon Nov 16 @ 8:00AM - 05:00PM Nanosafe 2020 |