NanoImpactNet is a network (not a research project) that will:

• Facilitate collaboration between projects
• Communicate results to stakeholders and their needs back to researchers
• Help implement the EU's Action Plan for Nanotechnology

Website: www.nanoimpactnet.eu

The objective of the NanoImpactNet is to create a scientific basis to ensure the safe and responsible development of engineered nanoparticles and nanotechnology-based materials and products, and to support the definition of regulatory measures and implementation of legislation in Europe. A better knowledge of the risks of nanomaterials for health and the environment will form a solid basis to avoid unnecessary damage and loss of investments; and allow for a sustainable development of the nanotechnology industries and markets.

The following basic forms of activities are planned:

• Promotion of coordination on test strategies and methods; screening tools; risk assessment tools; and risk assessment methodologies.
• Sharing and discussing existing knowledge in order to identify knowledge gaps; define strategies to address these gaps; and train staff and students.

Bernd Nowack is co-leading the

WP2    Hazards and fate of nanomaterials in the environment

There are multiple requirements within the area of environmental fate and effects of nanomaterials which encompass the wide range of nanomaterials released into the environment, the diversity of environments into which they can be released, their behaviour in these different environments and their impact upon organisms within these environments. Since very little is known regarding the chemistry, fate, behaviour and ecotoxicology of engineered nanomaterials in the environment, it is important to ensure that this new area of research is well integrated with existing areas of established research from which it can learn. There are a number of subject areas that need to be addressed in order to ascertain exposure, hazard and hence risk in the environment. This study will coordinate activities aimed at investigating hazard, the mechanism of hazard and identification of potential biomarkers of hazard identification. In silico modelling (i.e. computer simulations) relating the physicochemical characteristics of nanomaterials to their fate, behaviour and hazard in the in the environment will be required in the long term in order to allow proactive assessment of environmental risk.

Contact:

Bernd Nowack

Nicole Müller

Claudia Som