23 experts support an effective precautionary principle for nanomaterials
The Journal of Nanoparticle Research relays this month that 23 experts, out of 33 interviewed in the fall of 2018, have come out in favor of an effective application of the precautionary principle regarding nanomaterials, due to the strong scientific uncertainties that remain regarding their impacts on human health and the environment. The application of the precautionary principle for nanomaterials in Europe has been prevented by its systematic criticism as “unscientific” and “anti-innovation”, the fear of “over-regulating” a beneficial technology or product,
as well as the divergence of interests, priorities and decision criteria. However, 70% of the experts surveyed consider this principle necessary – it has indeed “the potential to enable and encourage democratic, transparent and inclusive decision-making processes where different voices are heard and taken into account”.
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Other news on the topic
Upcoming Nano Agenda
- E-learning program: awareness-raising for personnel who come into contact with nanomaterials during research, formulation, production, maintenance, cleaning, upkeep, etc., as well as safety coordinators or engineers, facility managers, heads of laboratories where nanoparticles are handled.
- Organizers: INSTN Grenoble (CEA)
- On the program:
- 1 – Introduction, definition and characteristics of nanomaterials
- 2 – Toxicity of nanomaterials: the state of knowledge
- 3 – Metrology and characterization of nanomaterials
- 4 – Prevention and protection against nanomaterials in the workplace
- 5 – Quiz: assessment of learning outcomes
- The 2-hour course can be viewed for one month from the date of registration.
- Website: https://instn.cea.fr/…risques-lies-aux-nanomateriaux…
- 7th Environmental nanotechology Gordon Research Conference (GRC)
- Chairs: Peter Vikeslan and Denise Mitrano
- Date: June 1-6, 2025
- Website: https://www.grc.org/environmental-nanotechnology-conference/2025/
- Workshop on risk assessment of nanomaterials and materials containing small/nanoparticles in the food and feed chain
- Organizer: EFSA
- This workshop will present the proposed strategy for updating the EFSA Nano Guidance documents, aiming to merge them into a single guidance on risk assessment for nanomaterials and small/nanoparticles in the food and feed chain.
The event will provide an open platform for discussing key issues, approaches to addressing them, and ensuring the guidance reflects the latest scientific knowledge. Stakeholders will be encouraged to share experiences and engage with regulators, helping shape the updated guidance. - Website: www.efsa.europa.eu/en/events/workshop-risk-assessment-nanomaterials-and-materials-containing-smallnanoparticles-food-and