The Guardian looks at the problem of uncontrolled use of nanos
In an article entitled “Forget microplastics: we may have a much smaller problem“, Nick Voulvoulis, professor of environmental technology at Imperial College London, is concerned about the uncontrolled use of nanotechnology in consumer products: “If nanos are used properly in applications that are useful or beneficial, that’s justified, but if they are just used anywhere and everywhere because they have certain properties, that’s crazy.”
AVICENN is also quoted several times, notably to emphasize the need to “ensure that nanos are only allowed for specific and essential uses in order to minimize any adverse effects at the source and [ensure they are] not released uncontrollably”.
One year after the withdrawal by IKEA of its (non) “air purifying” curtains, The Guardian also mentions our investigation which had established the presence of nanoparticles of titanium dioxide on the surface of the fibers as well as the lack of depolluting efficiency of the curtains.
Other news on the topic
Upcoming Nano Agenda
- 8th Congress of Occupational Medicine and Health (CNMST 2026)
- Theme 5: Emerging pathologies and risks, Mr Henri Bastos (ANSES), Pr Lynda Bensefa-Colas (AP-HP), Dr Catherine Nisse (CHU Lille)
- Website: www.medecine-sante-travail.com
- 20th meeting of the “nano and health” dialogue committee
- Organizer: ANSES
- Training intended for occupational physicians, occupational risk prevention specialists (IPRP), company prevention specialists, prevention department staff from Carsat, Cramif and CGSS, institutional prevention specialists (Dreets, Dreal, MSA…).
- Organizer: French National institute of research and security (INRS)
- October 5 to 9, 2026
- Website: www.inrs.fr/…/formation/…JA1030_2026