NanoImpactNet - The European Network on the Health and Environmental Impact of Nanomaterials

Coordinator: Michael Riediker, Institute for Work and Health, Lausanne, Switzerland

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.

Publications:

C Som, M Berges, Q Chaudhry, M Dusinska, T F Fernandes, S I Olsen, B Nowack (2010)  The importance of life cycle concepts for the development of safe nanoproducts   TOXICOLOGY 269: 2-3. 160-169 (pdf)

V Stone, B Nowack, A Baun, N van den Brink, F von der Kammer, M Dusinska, R Handy, S Hankin, M Hassellov, E Joner, T F Fernandes (2010)  Nanomaterials for environmental studies : Classification, reference material issues, and strategies for physico-chemical characterisation   SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 408: 7. 1745-1754 (pdf)

Contact:

Bernd Nowack
Nicole Müller
Claudia Som