BMU starts 12th International Nano-Authorities Dialogue
Today is the first day of the 12th International Nano-Authorities Dialogue on the central topic "Regulation of nanomaterials". Discussions will also be about the need to regulate advanced materials used in 3D printing, robotics and for energy storage. Today and tomorrow, 60 representatives from environmental, health and occupational safety authorities, industry, science and NGOs from the German-speaking countries Austria, Luxembourg, Liechtenstein, Switzerland and Germany are participating.
Parliamentary State Secretary Rita Schwarzelühr-Sutter stated: "We need uniform rules for nanomaterials and nanoproducts in the European market. In cooperation with Austria, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg and Switzerland we are preparing the ground for this. Regulation provides not only legal certainty but also investment certainty, which will strengthen Europe as a business location. This is vital for key technologies, including nanotechnologies."
The conference focusses on the regulation of nanomaterials in the areas of pharmaceuticals and medical devices, the regulations on cosmetic and biocidal products and the recently amended REACH regulation on chemicals. Above all, there is the need for a uniform definition of nanomaterials to be applied in all legislation to ensure legal certainty for both industry and consumers. All participants agree that the enforceability of existing regulations by making specific test and detection methods available is of upmost importance. In addition, the Nano-Authorities Dialogue will deal with the regulation of advanced materials for the first time. The authorities see this as including in particular all those applications which are not covered by the present definition of nanomaterials. The fast and complex development of such advanced materials should be examined more closely in relation to the environment and human health. 3D printing, robotics, electronics and energy storage are just some of the areas where such materials are used.
The international Nano-Authorities Dialogue is an annual event offering a platform for environmental, health and occupational safety authorities and industry, science and NGOs from the participating German speaking countries. The aim is to facilitate an informal, cross-border exchange of information and experience about current topics of nano governance. The results of the dialogue are the basis for further discussions about regulatory needs on a national, European and international level.