Nanotechnologies hold the key to major advances, breakthroughs and solutions to a number of global challenges. With so much potential, the effective market deployment and responsible management of these technologies is a must.
Nanotechnologies – essential to meet societal challenges
Nanotechnology is engineering at the smallest scale, at the molecular level, to produce nanomaterials. The tiny scale of these materials gives them specific or improved properties that can be harnessed in many different applications, for example to add strength or electrical conductivity.
Through improvements in efficiency and functionality, nanotechnologies bring tangible benefits to society, for example in the fields of solar energy, energy storage, water treatment, mobility, information and communication technology (ICT) and healthcare. They are already used as a key enabling technology for innovative products and processes in many sectors ranging from automotive to construction, electronics and medicine.
Nanotechnologies contribute to building a sustainable basis for competitiveness, growth and quality of life in Europe. Their development represents a big potential for European business. It also helps keep employment figures high in sectors in which the EU still enjoys global leadership. It is estimated that by 2015 about two million nanotechnology workers will be needed worldwide, of which 300,000 to 400,000 in Europe.
Ensuring safety
Ensuring that nanomaterials are produced, used and disposed of in a safe and sustainable way is essential to ensure their contribution to societal benefits. The European chemical industry sees the existing risk assessment paradigm and regulatory framework as a solid basis for this.
The EU has put in place a comprehensive regulatory framework that can be implemented and, where necessary, its guidance can be adapted to effectively regulate nanotechnologies and nanomaterials. Recent reports published by the European Commission confirm Cefic’s view that the existing REACH guidance is in general applicable to nanomaterials, with only few amendments needed. More information on the REACH Implementation Projects for Nanomaterials is available on the European Commission’s website.
The chemical industry sees harmonised and standardised methods as the best way to identify the potential risks of nanomaterials placed on the market and ensure the safe handling and use of these materials in their applications according to the current regulatory framework.
Cefic participates in setting harmonised standards and methods by contributing to the work of international bodies, such as:
- the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development OECD,
- the International Organization for Standardization ISO,
- the European Committee for Standardization CEN
- the EU.
Cefic aslo sponsors research on the safety of nanomaterials through its Long-range Research Initiative (LRI).
Engaging with stakeholders
The European chemical industry is an active stakeholder in the global dialogue and cooperation on nanotechnologies.
As for any emerging technology, a sense of urgency has arisen to weigh up the benefits and risk factors associated with specific applications of nanotechnologies. The European chemical industry engages in active dialogue with its stakeholders and works closely with other sectors to promote open communication across the value chain.
This commitment is part of the global chemical industry’s Responsible Care initiative. Cefic also contributes to raising awareness on nanomaterials at the global level as part of the United Nations’ Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM) policy framework, together with the International Council of Chemical Associations.