|
|
Setting the Limits for Engineered Nanoparticles
29/10/2009
An article published in the Journal of Environmental Monitoring, concludes that it is impossible to set limit values for engineered nanoparticles (ENPs) in European surface waters now and in the foreseeable future.
The research team, who are based at the Technical University of Denmark, say this inability is due to the extensive lack of knowledge not only of toxic effects, degradability, and bioaccumulation of ENPs in the aquatic environment, but also due to the questionable validity of test systems and methods to establish environmental quality standards. They claim that the review, which makes a link between the documented state-of-knowledge on effects of nanomaterials, possible environmental monitoring options, and the most important piece of legislation of the aquatic environment in Europe – the Water Framework Directive, is the first of its kind.
The Water Framework Directive (WFD) in Europe is responsible for maintaining a good chemical and ecological status of surface waters. The review, which examines the aquatic toxicity of carbon- and metal-containing ENPs and in light of principles to establish environmental quality standards, provides insight into the likely scenarios should the WFD decide to designate ENPs as a priority substance.
In their conclusions, the authors suggest that "...a stronger focus is directed towards upstream considerations regarding the use of engineered nanoparticles in products. For a number of engineered nanoparticles it will be relevant to consider whether a wide-spread, diffuse use in products with direct contact to the water cycle should be restricted. If specific engineered nanoparticles are included in the list of priority hazardous substances, the Water Framework Directive clearly states that measures shall be taken to reduce the release of these to the aquatic environment. The extensive uncertainty about the fate and effects of engineered nanoparticles in the environment may warrant that this proactive path in product development should be followed even now."
To read the article in full at the Journal of Environmental Monitoring, please click here.
|
|