Commission develops code of conduct on nanotechnology
for nanotechnology that places the burden of responsibility for
consumer safety on industry.
Nanotechnology is already making a big impact on the food industry, particularly in flavour delivery and packaging, but concerns about the impact of the technology on human health are widespread in the scientific community. Scientists are concerned that inadequate research has been conducted on the health effects of nanotechnology and that knowledge gaps need to be filled. Protecting human health The new voluntary code was conceived as an attempt to prevent these gaps from endangering the health of consumers by requiring researchers to proceed in accordance with the precautionary principle. Under the code, not only will the burden of proof fall on researchers in relation to safety but they will also be accountable for the impact of their work. "The code of conduct is a tool developed by the Commission that will make it very simple to address the legitimate concerns that can arise regarding nanotechnologies," said EU science and research commissioner Janez Potocnik. Those who choose to adopt the code will have to abide by seven general principles that are summarised below:
Precaution: Researchers should conduct their activities according to the precautionary principle, anticipating the possible negative results of their work and taking due precautions.
Meaning: Research should be comprehensible to the public, respect fundamental rights and be carried out in the interest of the well-being of individuals and society.
Sustainability: Nanotechnology research should be safe, ethical and contribute to sustainable development.
Accountability: Accountability for the social, environmental and health effects of nanotech research should lie with those conducting it.
Inclusiveness: Participation by all stakeholders should be allowed in research and the right to access to information should be provided.
Excellence: Research should meet the best scientific standards.
Innovation: Governance of research activities should encourage maximum creativity, flexibility and planning ability for innovation and growth.
Nanotech potential The code of conduct is also designed to ensure the potential of the science is exploited with emphasis in the principles being placed on innovation and excellence as well as safety. "Nanotechnologies could very well be the next revolution in enabling technologies and Europe has a good track record in their development," added Potocnik. Manufacturers in the food and cosmetics industries are already using nanotechnology and the number of products developed using the new science is increasing fast. The Lux Research group estimate that the market potential of nanotechnology products could be worth up to €1.9 trillion by 2014. Nanotechnology is the science of manipulating the properties of tiny particles, measuring one billionth of a metre and has a broad range of applications from computer chips to food and personal care. A human hair is 80,000 nanometres (nm) wide, a red blood cell 7,000 nm wide, and a water molecule 0.3 nm wide.
