Current activity relating to the regulation of nanotechnologies
The development of nanotechnologies over the last two decades promises to bring great benefits to society and the global economy, through numerous commercial and technical applications. However, the novel properties and behaviours of substances at the nanoscale mean they also present new risks, which are yet to be fully investigated and understood. This poses the question of whether existing regulatory regimes are sufficient to protect workers, consumers and the environment from such risks. Calls for governments to step in and guard against the inherent risks of such new technologies are being met with a debate between government, industry and the community as to where the responsibility for such safeguarding should lie. In addition, balancing innovation and commercialisation of nanotechnologies to maximise economic sustainability in an uncertain global environment, whilst also showing sufficient precaution is particularly challenging.
This section of SAFENANO provides an overview of current activity in relation to nanotechnologies regulation, across the three key sectors:
Each section provides an introduction to the specific challenges faced, together with an outline developments in regulatory actions by bodies active in the area.