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Nanotechnologies - research reports

 

Characterising the risks posed by engineered nanoparticles

The Government has now published it's second research report Characterising the Potential Risks posed by Engineered Nanoparticles. This report builds on the 2005 report and 2006 progress report, providing an update on the Defra's Nanotechnology Research Co-ordination Group’s objectives and associated programme of work.

In November 2005 the Nanotechnology Research Coordination Group (NRCG) produced a first research report setting out a programme of research objectives to characterise the potential risks posed by nanotechnologies, with a particular focus on nanoparticles. This report describes ongoing activities and funding mechanisms to address research priorities.

Review of gaps in environmental regulation for the products and applications of nanotechnologies

A regulatory gaps study lead by the Central Science Laboratory (CSL) which aims to consider the appropriateness of existing frameworks for environmental regulation in the face of potential risks posed by current and future products and applications of nanotechnologies. It will focus on the risks posed by free nanoparticles and nanotubes and identify measures to protect human health and the environment.

The manufacture and use of nanomaterials in the UK

Defra commissioned the Central Science Laboratory to undertake a scoping study into the manufacture and use of nanomaterials in the UK. The findings and conclusions are intended to inform Defra's policy thinking in the area of potential risks posed by nanomaterials, including the development of a voluntary reporting scheme for industries involved in the manufacture and use of nanomaterials.

Scoping studies

Two studies have recently been completed for Defra by the Health and Safety Laboratory and the Institute of Occupational Medicine to identify exposure and hazard data needs respectively for addressing the risks presented by nanoparticles and nanotubes. The reports have been used to identify research needs to find out more about the potential risks associated with free engineered nanoparticles to the environment and human health.

For more information contact nano.technology@defra.gsi.gov.uk

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Page last modified: 3 November 2008
Page published: 21 October 2005

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs