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Report Title: Nanosafe – Dissemination reports
Report ID: 562
Date: 9/1/2009
Author: Nanosafe2 Project
Report Type: General Report
URL: [show.asp]
Country: European Union
Organization: Nanosafe2
Summary: As part of the European Commission’s Sixth Framework Programme (FP6), Nanosafe2 is an EU integrated project among seven countries to establish processes to detect, track, and characterize nanoparticles. These dissemination reports are very brief, simplified presentations of study results. They investigate the efficacy of conventional protective devices (such as fibrous filter media) against nanoaersols, the explosivity and flammability of nanopowders, measuring engineered nanoparticles in the workplace, estimating nanoaerosol explosion risk, nanotoxicology, safe procedures for handling nanoparticles, current regulations and the role of standards, and using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy for monitoring of nanoparticle production processes. Each report is approximately eight pages.



Report Title: Commission Recommendation of 07/02/2008 on a code of conduct for responsible nanosciences and nanotechnologies research
Report ID: 554
Date: 2/7/2008
Report Type: Government Communication
URL: [nanocode-rec_pe0894c_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: In its 2007 First Implementation Report of its Nanotechnologies Action Plan for Europe (see report ID 468), the European Commission announced its intention to create a voluntary code of conduct for responsible nanotechnology research. This code is intended to promote safe, integrated, and responsible research for the benefit of society. The code recommends that EU member states be guided by the general principles and guidelines in this document, and that they encourage its adoption by national authorities, researchers, and industry. The code’s main tenants are that nanotech research be comprehensible to the public; research should be safe, ethical, and contribute to sustainable development; research activities should be conducted according to the precautionary principle; all stakeholders should have access to research governance and be involved in decision-making; governance of research activities should encourage maximum creativity, flexibility, and planning ability for innovation; and researchers should be accountable for the social, environmental, and human health impacts of their work. The Commission announced the release of this code in an accompanying press release (see report ID 135).
Archived Copy: nanocode-rec_pe0894c_en_554_2568.pdf



Report Title: Synthesis report on codes of conduct, voluntary measures and practices towards a responsible development of N&N
Report ID: 553
Date: 9/1/2010
Author: NanoCode
Report Type: General Report
URL: [nanocode-project-synthesis-report.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: NanoCode
Summary: The NanoCode project aims to define and develop a framework for the implementation of the Code of Conduct for nanosciences and nanotechnologies research in the EU, with the goal of furthering responsible and safe research among stakeholders. This synthesis report identifies the level of awareness as well as the attitudes of stakeholders towards responsible nanotechnology development. It also identifies their compliance (or lack thereof) with the principles of the Code of Conduct. There is a wide variation among countries in their interest and activity in nanotechnology and appropriate regulation. Countries that are particularly active, such as many of the EU countries, have national initiatives, while countries with a small nanotech industry are lacking in structure. The voluntary nature of the Code of Conduct means that no country has yet formally adopted it, and the report shows that awareness of the Code is limited among researchers. Questions are also raised about whether the Code may need to be focused on particular topics rather than attempting to cover all nanotech research in all countries.
Archived Copy: nanocode-project-synthesis-report_553_4358.pdf



Report Title: Code of Conduct for the Production and Use of Carbon Nanotubes
Report ID: 531
Date: 3/4/2008
Author: Producers Association of Carbon Nanotubes in Europe (PACTE)
Report Type: Statement
URL: [PACTE_Code%20of%20conduct.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC)
Summary: The Producers Association of Carbon Nanotubes in Europe (PACTE), a division of the European Chemical Industry Council (CEFIC), has released this Code of Conduct for the production and usage of carbon nanotubes in industry. The code reflects “good practices” for ensuring safety. These include using technical work equipment (such as a local exhaust ventilation system and vacuum pickup) to minimize the release of carbon nanotubes, organizational protection measures (information and training for employees on the risks, and documentation of work processes), personal protection measures (respirators and protective clothing), monitoring of workplace exposure (pre- and post-production measurements of airborne nanotubes), and worker health surveillance (routine screenings for workers).
Archived Copy: PACTE_Code of conduct_531_6949.pdf



Report Title: Scientific Basis for the Definition of the Term "Nanomaterial"
Report ID: 522
Date: 7/6/2010
Report Type: Scientific Opinion Report
URL: [scenihr_o_030.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENHIR)
Summary: This opinion provides advice on the scientific elements of a definition for "nanomaterial." Many current definitions lack scientific support. At present, there is no scientific evidence in favor of a single upper size limit for nanoparticles, but an upper limit of 100 nm is commonly used. While size is the predominant feature in classifying nanoparticles, internal size must be considered as well. Some aggregates and complex multi-component nanomaterials with external dimensions in excess of an upper size limit still have internal structures with nanomaterial dimensions. Other criteria to use include measuring the volume specific surface area (VSSA) of a particle, and considering the size distribution. While this opinion concludes that size is the most suitable measurand for determining nanoparticles, other properties such as crystalline phase and water solubility can be secondarily useful. SCENIHR suggests that size, characteristics, physico-chemical properties, and thresholds be taken into account when setting nanomaterial definitions.
Archived Copy: scenihr_o_030 definition_522_6136.pdf



Report Title: Considerations on a Definition of Nanomaterial for Regulatory Purposes
Report ID: 519
Date: 7/1/2010
Author: Göran Lövestam, Hubert Rauscher, Gert Roebben, et al
Report Type: Guidance Document
URL: [jrc_reference_report_201007_nanomaterials.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission, Joint Research Centre (JRC)
Summary: In the European Commission's review of nanotechnology regulation (see report ID 136), the Commission identified the need for a comprehensive science-based definition of nanomaterials. This report identifies elements of such a definition and reviews currently available definitions. It also suggests guidance for creating a science-based definition for practical use. A definition should be broadly applicable in EU legislation and policies, legally clear, enforceable through agreed measurement techniques, and in line with other approaches worldwide. This report analyzes definitions from the ISO, SCENIHR, OECD, and other groups, which often contradict in size and other parameters. The Commission believes that size itself should be used as a parameter in a definition of nanomaterial instead of other parameters which depend on size. The report concludes that a definition of nanomaterial for regulatory purposes should only concern particulate nanomaterials, be broadly applicable in EU legislation, and use size as the only defining property.
Archived Copy: jrc_reference_report_201007_nanomaterials_519_7201.pdf



Report Title: Position (EU) No 6/2010 of the Council at First Reading With a View to the Adoption of a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on Novel Foods, Amending Regulation (ec) No 1331/2008 and Repealing Regulation (ec) No 258/97 and Commission Regulation (ec) No 1852/2001
Report ID: 515
Date: 5/11/2010
Report Type: Legislation
URL: [LexUriServ.do]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Parliament
Summary: After the European Parliament previously (see report ID 138) suggested revising the European novel food laws, the European Parliament has adopted its first-reading position on draft regulation concerning novel foods. This legislation intends to stimulate the development of innovative foods while ensuring a high level of food safety and consumer protection. Notably, the approval process for novel foods is now streamlined, with all applications submitted to the European Commission for a risk assessment by the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA). The Commission can now approve new novel foods by a committee procedure. Previously, food applications had to be sent to all member states and the Commission for safety assessment and commenting, with any member state able to raise objections. This legislation also clarifies the definition of novel food to include food produced from cloned animals and to include any food containing or consisting of engineered nanomaterials.
Archived Copy: 5976144_060410_515_5198.pdf



Report Title: NanoCom Questionnaire 1
Report ID: 510
Date: 4/1/2010
Report Type: Webpage
URL: [P.aspx]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission, NanoCom
Summary: The European Commission's NanoCom project is a coordinated action which aims to contribute towards bridging the gap between lab-based and industrial applications of nanotechnology. As part of its work, NanoCom has published this questionnaire for nanotech companies to submit input on nanotechnology competition. The objective of the questionnaire is to identify and rank the success factors for commercialization of nanotechnology, and to eventually eliminate the main barriers. The questionnaire is designed to take less than ten minutes to complete and asks questions on background information, success indicators, success factors, and barriers.
Archived Copy: nanocom_510_8332.pdf



Report Title: 5th Meeting of the WG 'Nanomaterials in Cosmetic Products' – 12 November 2009 Minutes
Report ID: 507
Date: 11/12/2009
Report Type: Meeting Minutes
URL: [sccs_miwg_019.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Directorate General Health & Consumer Protection: Scientific Committee on Consumer Products
Summary: The European Commission's Scientific Committee on Consumer Products addresses questions relating to the safety of consumer products, particularly questions about cosmetics, toys, clothing, personal care products, domestic products, and consumer services. This document contains the minutes from the 5th Meeting of the Workgroup on Nanomaterials in Consumer Products. From May 2009 to February 2010, the workgroup met eight times to address new concerns from nanoparticle-containing cosmetic products. At this meeting, the workgroup identified further data requirements for nanoparticle titanium dioxide and also discussed the safety dossier on ETH-50.
Archived Copy: sccs_miwg_019_507_9264.pdf



Report Title: Accompanying Document to "nanosciences and Nanotechnologies: an Action Plan for Europe 2005-2009. Second Implementation Report 2007-2009"
Report ID: 505
Date: 10/29/2009
Report Type: Working Document
URL: [LexUriServ.do]
Country: European Union
Organization: Commission of the European Communities
Summary: This document is the accompanying working document to the Second Implementation Report 2007-2009 of the European Action Plan for nanotechnology (see report ID 416). While the Report outlines nanotechnology developments for each policy area of the Action Plan, this working document contains in-depth detail for all headings in the Plan, including references to additional information.
Archived Copy: LexUriServ_505_3511.pdf



Report Title: Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council
Report ID: 502
Date: 12/18/2006
Author: European Parliament and European Council
Report Type: Legislation
URL: [LexUriServ.do]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Parliament
Summary: In 2006, the European Parliament and European Council enacted REACH. REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorization, and restriction of Chemical Substances) requires all manufacturers or importers of chemical substances to register the substances with the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) if the quantity is greater than one tonne per year. The nature of nanomaterials means that many nanomaterials which would otherwise be subject to regulation are not covered under REACH because they do not reach the one tonne threshold. REACH was subsequently modified in 2008 (see report ID 99) to add additional chemicals.
Archived Copy: REACH_502_6277.pdf



Report Title: Classification, Labeling And Packaging Of Nanomaterials In Reach And CLP
Report ID: 500
Date: 12/3/2009
Report Type: Government Communication
URL: [nanos_in_reach_and_clp_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Directorate General Environment
Summary: Although nanomaterials are not specifically addressed in REACH, they are classified as substances if they meet the tonnage threshold. The European Commission is currently preparing advice on how to regulate nanomaterials under REACH and classification, labeling, and packaging regulations. The Classification, Labelling, and Packaging (CLP) Regulation (1272/2008/EC) provides a general framework for the classification and labeling of nanomaterials. CLP requires that manufacturers, importers, and downstream users classify substances and appropriately label and package them. These substances will be included in a CLP inventory similar to that of REACH. Because only certain nanomaterials have toxic characteristics, classification and labeling of nanomaterials must be done on a case-by-case basis.
Archived Copy: nanos_in_reach_and_clp_en_500_2174.pdf



Report Title: Report on the European Commission's Public Online Consultation: Towards a Strategic Nanotechnology Action Plan (snap) 2010-2015
Report ID: 482
Date: 5/11/2009
Author: European Commission
Report Type: Government Report
URL: [report_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: The European Commission is considering a new Action Plan for Nanotechnology with the goal of addressing the technological and societal challenges nanotechnology poses and emphasizing sustainable development, competitiveness, health, safety, and environmental issues. To support the preparation of the Action Plan, a public consultation was held from December 18, 2009 to February 19, 2010 in the form of an online questionnaire, targeted at both experts in the field and the public. This document is a report on the 716 responses received. Most responses (~38%) were from individual researchers. This document is a collection and analysis of the received responses. Overall, more than 80% of respondents had either high or reasonable expectations about nanotechnology. When opinions about areas with risks and benefits are analyzed, there is a large difference between experts and the public. Information and communication technologies (ICT) and energy are the areas where the benefits are believed to far exceed the risks. Healthcare is also an area where perceived benefits are high, but so is the perception of risks. Respondents expect more action to ensure safety but all areas of nanotechnology strategy need to be pursued with stronger action.
Archived Copy: report_en_482_1219.pdf



Report Title: Meps Back Tougher Rules for Nanotechnology
Report ID: 481
Date: 4/28/2009
Author: EurActiv
Report Type: News Article
Publication: EurActiv.com
URL: [article-181695]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Parliament
Summary: On April 24, 2009, the European Parliament adopted the Schlyter Draft Report on regulatory aspects of nanomaterials (see report ID 74 and amendments in ID 192). The report calls for all nanomaterials to be considered as new substances, and was approved by a vote of 391-3. The European Environmental Bureau (EEB) and consumer group BEUC welcomed the adoption of the report, believing it will create a safe legislative framework for regulating nanotechnology. REACHforLIFE and an executive director at chemical industry body CEFIC were opposed to the report, claiming it could create "confusion and information overkill."
Archived Copy: MEPs back tougher rules_481_9977.pdf



Report Title: Report on Nanotechnology to the Medical Devices Expert Group: Findings and Recommendations
Report ID: 480
Date: 7/27/2007
Author: Working Group on New and Emerging Technologies in Medical Devices (N&ET Working Group)
Report Type: Committee Report
URL: [document.cfm]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Medical Devices Expert Group
Summary: The New and Emerging Technology Working Group, a sub-group of the Medical Devices Expert Group which advises the European Commission on medical devices, aimed in this report to consider the adequacy of the existing regulations in managing the use of nanotechnology in medical devices. Generally, the Working Group considers existing legislation suitable for dealing with medical devices using nanotechnology. The existing risk management approach of the regulations appropriately covers new risks such as nanotechnology. Nanotechnology concerns are concentrated on the potential for free nanoparticles. However, there possibly could be a specific classification rule moving nanomaterial products into Class III, which is a device class requiring case-by-case risk assessment. Although products coated in nanoparticles pose a risk of releasing free nanoparticles during use, this risk is very similar to that of traditional implants (e.g. hip replacements) which also can create particles through wear. There needs to be a post-market surveillance system to ensure that nanomaterial-containing devices are as safe as expected, and the methods by which risks will be examined under the present legislation must be developed further.
Archived Copy: medicaldevices_480_7157.pdf



Report Title: EU’s REACH Framework Is Applicable To New Nanomaterials, Agency Head Says
Report ID: 477
Date: 12/4/2007
Author: Lawrence J. Speer
Report Type: News Article
Publication: Daily Environment Report, No. 232, Page A-2
URL: [a0b5m4e4r8]
Country: European Union
Summary: During a presentation at the EuroNanOSH 2007 conference, the head of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), Geert Dancet, said that manufactured nanomaterials are covered by the EU's REACH chemical regulatory framework in the same manner as any other chemicals placed on the European market. While others have claimed that nanomaterials will fall below the tonnage requirements for REACH regulation, Dancet said that nanomaterials can still be subject to any risk reduction measures as long as there is convincing evidence that such an action is required. He acknowledged that in the example of titanium dioxide, REACH treats both the bulk material and the nanosize material as the same substance, but said that the registrant can still identify different dangerous properties of the substance depending on its size and differently classify the types. Dancet recommends that nanoscale derivatives of traditional bulk materials be treated as the same substances under REACH, as registering them as new substances would more likely lead to them not reaching the tonnage requirements.
Archived Copy: bna_477_7769.pdf



Report Title: EU’s REACH Framework Is Applicable To New Nanomaterials, Agency Head Says
Report ID: 476
Date: 12/4/2007
Author: Lawrence J. Speer
Report Type: News Article
Publication: http://pubs.bna.com/ip/bna/DEN.NSF/eh/a0b5m4e4r8
Country: European Union
Summary: During a presentation at the EuroNanOSH 2007 conference, the head of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), Geert Dancet, said that manufactured nanomaterials are covered by the EU's REACH chemical regulatory framework in the same manner as any other chemicals placed on the European market. While others have claimed that nanomaterials will fall below the tonnage requirements for REACH regulation, Dancet said that nanomaterials can still be subject to any risk reduction measures as long as there is convincing evidence that such an action is required. He acknowledged that in the example of titanium dioxide, REACH treats both the bulk material and the nanosize material as the same substance, but said that the registrant can still identify different dangerous properties of the substance depending on its size and differently classify the types. Dancet recommends that nanoscale derivatives of traditional bulk materials be treated as the same substances under REACH, as registering them as new substances would more likely lead to them not reaching the tonnage requirements.
Archived Copy: bna_476_6123.pdf



Report Title: EU’s REACH Framework Is Applicable To New Nanomaterials, Agency Head Says
Report ID: 475
Date: 12/4/2007
Author: Lawrence J. Speer
Report Type: News Article
Publication: Daily Environment Report, No. 232, Page A-2
URL: [a0b5m4e4r8]
Country: European Union
Summary: During a presentation at the EuroNanOSH 2007 conference, the head of the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA), Geert Dancet, said that manufactured nanomaterials are covered by the EU's REACH chemical regulatory framework in the same manner as any other chemicals placed on the European market. While others have claimed that nanomaterials will fall below the tonnage requirements for REACH regulation, Dancet said that nanomaterials can still be subject to any risk reduction measures as long as there is convincing evidence that such an action is required. He acknowledged that in the example of titanium dioxide, REACH treats both the bulk material and the nanosize material as the same substance, but said that the registrant can still identify different dangerous properties of the substance depending on its size and differently classify the types. Dancet recommends that nanoscale derivatives of traditional bulk materials be treated as the same substances under REACH, as registering them as new substances would more likely lead to them not reaching the tonnage requirements.
Archived Copy: bna_475_2790.pdf



Report Title: Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies: An Action Plan for Europe 2005-2009. First Implementation Report 2005-2007
Report ID: 468
Date: 9/6/2007
Report Type: Government Report
URL: [LexUriServ.do]
Country: European Union
Organization: Commission of the European Communities
Summary: In 2005, the European Commission enacted a 16-page action plan for the development of the "integrated, safe and responsible" strategy towards nanotechnology. The action plan covers 2005-2009, and this document is the first of two implementation reports. It covers 2005-2007, during which the "integrated, safe, and responsible" approach towards nanotechnology has become the core of the EU’s nanotechnology policy. Research and development expenditures have greatly increased and funding is expected to double in the future. In the next Research Framework Programme, research infrastructures will continue to be supported and new programs are being enacted to foster collaboration between research and industry. Work continues to inform the public about nanotechnology and to improve safety knowledge. International collaboration on safety standards is also underway, and future dialogues are planned.
Archived Copy: First Implementation Report_468_1297.pdf



Report Title: Regulation (EC) No 1223/2009 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 30 November 2009 on cosmetic products
Report ID: 455
Date: 11/30/2009
Author: European Parliament and the Council of the European Union
Report Type: Legislation
URL: [LexUriServ.do]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Parliament
Summary: Regulation (EC) No. 1223/2009 is the first EU regulation to include a dedicated provision expressly designed to review the safety of nanomaterials. This new regulation repeals the former cosmetics regulation (Council Directive 76/768/EEC) and the existing national laws on cosmetic products. The regulation takes effect on July 11, 2013, with products containing carcinogenic, mutagenic, or toxic to reproduction substances being regulated as of December 1, 2010. All cosmetic products will be subject to a safety assessment and to a premarket notification and approval procedure. Every product is required to name a "responsible person" who is responsible for ensuring compliance with the regulation and for informing authorities if the product poses a risk to human health. Distributors of cosmetic products are also held responsible for ensuring that the products they distribute are in compliance with labeling requirements for nanomaterial-containing substances. Both the responsible person and the distributor are required to inform the authorities of any serious biological effects from the product they have placed on the market. Additionally, products must be traceable both from the responsible person to all distributors and vice versa. The responsible person also must keep product information on file for ten years from the last batch of a product is placed on the market. The required safety assessment includes a product safety report with data requirements (listed in Annex I). The safety report must provide quantitative and qualitative composition, physical/chemical characteristics, toxicological profile, etc. It must be updated if new information is available after the product is placed on the market. The regulation also creates a centralized electronic notification procedure for new cosmetic products, provides a definition of nanomaterials, and establishes specific safety and labeling requirements for nanomaterial-containing cosmetic products.
Archived Copy: LexUriServ_455_4507.pdf



Report Title: The Synthesis Report on the public consultation of the SCENIHR opinion on "The appropriateness of existing methodologies to assess the potential risks associated with engineered and adventitious products of nanotechnologies"
Report ID: 448
Date: 6/1/2006
Report Type: General Report
URL: [synth_report.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENHIR)
Summary: The Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENHIR)'s opinion on the appropriateness of existing methodologies to assess the potential risks associated with nanotechnology (see report ID 69) was adopted in 2005 and subsequently modified after public consultation from October 20 to December 16, 2005; it was adopted in modified form in March 2006. This document is the Synthesis Report presenting the overall results from the public consultation and SCENHIR's response to the public comments. Responding stakeholders included representatives of manufacturers, research institutions, NGOs, and individuals. Overall, respondents agreed with SCENHIR's assessment of risk assessment methodologies and the need for case by case evaluation of risks. Issues raised that were outside of the SCENHIR scope included the need for better EU and international coordination, international consensus of testing and risk assessment methodologies, and integration of the risk assessment demands of nanotechnology products into the existing legal frameworks. Areas of public disagreement largely were over the appropriateness of existing testing methods. SCENHIR's response to the public comments emphasizes that its call for development of new methodologies was not meant to neglect current methodologies. Both the public and SCENHIR agree that actions must be pragmatic and there is value in case by case risk assessment.
Archived Copy: synth_report_448_2212.pdf



Report Title: Plenary Meeting of the Advisory Group on the Food Chain and Animal and Plant Health
Report ID: 443
Date: 3/7/2008
Report Type: Meeting Record
URL: [sum_07032008.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Health and Consumers Directorate-General
Summary: The Advisory Group on the Food Chain and Animal and Plant Health meets twice a year in plenary sessions to discuss general food safety policy issues, and advises the European Commission. This document contains a summary of the Group's March 7, 2008 meeting. The Commission's representative presented to the Group an overview of the new Comitology forward planner, a comprehensive overview of actions designed to inform stakeholders of activities. The planner lists the timing of proposed measures, their descriptions, and the stakeholder consultation considered. The Group also listened to a Commission presentation on Private Voluntary Standards (PVS), which predominantly apply to food products and are a trade issue to developing countries outside the EU. Participants felt that PVS could contribute to the enforcement of EU food law and that they put pressures on retailers from NGOs to market products on the basis of safety. However, some participants believed that marketing products on the basis of safety creates confusion over safety, misleads consumers, and gives an unfair competitive advantage to developing countries. The Commission representative stated that a working group will be organized to foster a more structured discussion of PVS.
Archived Copy: sum_07032008_443_2049.pdf



Report Title: Amendments 1-110
Report ID: 441
Date: 3/3/2009
Author: Carl Schlyter, Reporter
Report Type: Legislation
URL: [771661en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety
Summary: In January 2009, the European Parliament Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety published its draft report (report ID 74) on the regulatory aspects of nanomaterials, calling for extensive changes to the regulatory framework and a review of all legislation by the end of 2009. This document contains the 110 motions for amendment received following the publication of the draft report. Most amendments sought to expound unclear phrases of the draft report, or to soften harsh language which criticized current legislation and Commission actions. Of these proposed amendments, the Committee subsequently compromised on the adoption of thirty-five, which can be found in the subsequent document “Compromise and Consolidated Amendments 1-35” (report ID 192).
Archived Copy: 771661en_441_6571.pdf



Report Title: Commission Staff Working Document
Report ID: 417
Date: 10/29/2009
Report Type: Information Sheet
URL: [LexUriServ.do]
Country: European Union
Organization: Commission of the European Communities
Summary: This Staff Working Document contains detailed information on progress regarding nanotechnology policy, while the Communication to which it is attached outlines the key developments in each policy area of the Action Plan, identifies current challenges, and draws conclusions relevant to the future European nanotechnology policy. This document follows the headings of the Action Plan (apart from the last one, on coordination, which is dealt with only in the Communication). International cooperation is now an integral part of the Commission’s policy in all areas of the Action Plan, and is dealt with mainly under the respective policy areas.
Archived Copy: eu 2nd implementation report accompanying paper_417_2950.pdf



Report Title: Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies: an Action Plan for Europe 2005-2009. Second Implementation Report 2007-2009
Report ID: 416
Date: 10/29/2009
Report Type: Advisory Report
URL: [LexUriServ.do]
Country: European Union
Organization: Commission of the European Communities
Summary: This Communication outlines the key developments during 2007-2009 in each policy area of the Action Plan, identifies current challenges, and draws conclusions relevant to the future European nanotechnology policy. Where appropriate, for completeness and continuity, the report includes developments in preceding years. Additional, detailed supporting information is available in the accompanying Staff Working Document. As an overall remark, the past two years have seen a substantial development of nanotechnology, supported by a further growth in research funding and the active development of policy. The fact that there is constant realization of novel applications and products of nanotechnology necessitates further efforts to address societal and safety concerns in order to ensure the safe and sustainable development of nanotechnology.
Archived Copy: EU 2nd implementation report 2007 09_416_6149.pdf



Report Title: 4th Joint EC-NSF Workshop on Nanotechnology: Tools and Instruments for Research
Report ID: 404
Date: 6/1/2002
Author: edited by Anne de Baas and Hervé Péro
Report Type: Workshop Report
Publication: European Communities
URL: [nano_grenoble_proceedings_en_1102.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Directorate-General for Research
Summary: The NSF-EC Nanotechnology Workshop on Tools and Instruments for Research and
Manufacturing was held 12-13 June 2002 and included around ninety experts, leading researchers and investigators in the field of nanomanufacturing, coming from academia, industry and government laboratories. Its aim was that of fostering international collaboration in research and education by the identification of future co-operative activities and joint actions in the entire area of nanoscale processing and manufacturing. As such, the workshop highlighted approaches to help generating real breakthroughs for radical changes in current production and consumption patterns. It is envisioned that the ongoing NSF-EC cooperation, and in particular this series of workshops, will provide a critical thrust for new scientific developments and engineering applications that will have a mutually beneficial impact for both the U.S. and European research partners.
Archived Copy: nano_grenoble_proceedings_en_1102_404_8808.pdf
See Also: 403



Report Title: 3rd Joint EC- NSF Workshop on Nanotechnology: Nanotechnology Revolutionary Opportunities & Societal Implications
Report ID: 403
Date: 1/1/2002
Author: edited by Mihail Roco and Renzo Tomellini
Report Type: Workshop Report
Publication: European Communities
URL: [nano_lecce_proceedings_05062002.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Directorate-General for Research
Summary: Approximately seventy participants from the EC and US attended the 3rd Joint EC- NSF Workshop on Nanotechnology, which consisted of three poster sessions focusing on the future technical opportunities of, educational implications for, and societal implications of nanotechnology. The workshop revealed that the EC and US nanotechnology communities face common technical, educational, and societal challenges that would benefit from enhanced collaborations. Several specific recommendations came to light during the course of this workshop. For instance, there are opportunities in the application of nanotechnology to energy usage, protection of the environment, information technology, and biotechnology that can be promoted through EC-US technical partnerships. The connection of these applications to commercial opportunities and public policy is an area that is furthermore ripe for joint exploration with industry and government. Additionally, models for technical workforce recruitment and training that are compatible with the US and EC educational systems are needed, as are models for professional development.
Archived Copy: nano_lecce_proceedings_05062002_403_8188.pdf



Report Title: NSF-EC Workshop on Nanomanufacturing and Processing
Report ID: 402
Date: 1/1/2002
Author: Fabio Biscarini, Julie Chen, Ranga Komanduri, Carlo Taliani
Report Type: Workshop Report
URL: [nsfec_workshop_report.pdf]
Country: European Union
Summary: The Second NSF-EC Workshop on Nanomanufacturing and Processing was held in San Juan, Puerto Rico on 5-7 January 2002. The Workshop was held within the framework of the cooperation between the National Science Foundation (NSF) and the European Commission (EC, materials sciences), with the aim of catalyzing progress in research and education in the emerging field of Nanomanufacturing and processing. It is envisioned that this NSF-EC cooperation will provide a critical thrust to translate the growing global investments in the field of Nanoscale Science and Engineering into new scientific developments and engineering applications that will have a mutually beneficial impact for both the U.S. and European research partners and broader societies. Specific objectives of the workshop were: to identify research milestones; potential implications, impacts, and applications of nanomanufacturing in the promotion of international security; a support plan for the infrastructure required to achieve the research/education objectives; potential collaborations between the American and European nanotechnology communities at all levels; and methods to disseminate information and report the workshop recommendations across various disciplines.
Archived Copy: nsfec_workshop_report_402_4062.pdf



Report Title: Joint EC/NSF Workshop on Nanotechnologies
Report ID: 401
Date: 10/1/2001
Author: Philippe Busquin, et. al.
Report Type: Workshop Report
Publication: European Communities
URL: [nano_workshop_001020_proceedings.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Directorate-General for Research
Summary: Jointly organized by the European Commission and the National Science Foundation of the United States, The EC/NSF Workshop on Nanotechnology brought together some of the most eminent European and American scientists in this field in order to survey the state of the art in nanotechnology, determine the prospects for development and identify areas for fruitful EU/USA co-operation in research. Following a presentation from spokesmen for the EC and NSF on their respective approaches to the support of nanotechnology research and the mechanisms for its funding, a series of presentations outlined recent work and future prospects in the four main nanotechnology sectors – electronics, biotechnology, materials and nanofabrication. These presentations were followed by group discussions in which the European and American participants sought to establish priorities, define areas of common interest, and suggest practical ways to increase collaboration. The results indicate that the workshop made a valuable contribution by identifying complementary expertise in the EU and USA, highlighting areas where shared initiatives could be mutually beneficial and clarifying the criteria for funding such projects. Though certain practical problems still remain to be resolved, it was concluded that the EC (DG RTD)/NSF Implementing Arrangement in the area of Materials Sciences provides an effective and promising basis for continuing transatlantic co-operation.
Archived Copy: nano_workshop_001020_proceedings_401_1017.pdf



Report Title: Esf Publishes 'forward Look' for Nanomedicine
Report ID: 396
Date: 3/1/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The European Science Foundation (ESF) launched the first ever foresight exercise focused on the medical applications of nanotechnology in 2004 - its 'scientific forward look on nanomedicine'. The study aimed to define the current state-of-the-art in nanomedicine, identify Europe's strengths and weaknesses, and provide recommendations on future research trends, organisational and research infrastructures, and methods of disseminating information to policy makers and the general public. The exercise was carried out through a series of five thematic workshops, and a final consensus conference attended by more than 70 representatives from academia, industry, private foundations and government research agencies. The ESF analysis identifies and suggests solutions to potential weaknesses in the European system, like the fragmented organization and funding of nanomedicine in Europe. Finally, the report emphasises the importance of effective modes of communication: between scientists themselves, from the research community to political bodies, and to the general public at large.



Report Title: The Need for Measurement and Testing in Nanotechnology
Report ID: 392
Date: 2/1/2002
Author: High Level Expert Group on Measurement and Testing
Report Type: Concept Paper
Publication: Danish Institute of Fundamental Metrology
URL: [nano_measurement-testing_022002_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Summary: This report is prepared for the High Level Expert Group (HLEG) on the generic activity "Measurement and testing" of the fifth European framework programme for Research and Technology Development with the aim of identifying new needs for research and development in metrology (including both measurement and testing) to support the demands from nanotechnology, which is foreseen to be one of the major new technologies of the coming decades. After a brief introduction to nanotechnology the report addresses nano-metrology from the perspectives of written standards, scientific instrumentation, validated measurement procedures, measurement standards, chemical analysis, and biology. It is suggested that despite the multi-disciplinary nature of nano-science and the multisector nature of its industrial applications, nano-metrology can focus on a few generic developments. Hence it is suggested that the same measurement standards can support the three different industrial sectors: Precision Engineering, Micro- and opto-electronics, as well as Bio-molecular technology.
Archived Copy: nano_measurement-testing_022002_en_392_6363.pdf



Report Title: U.S.-E.C. Nanotech Collaboration Launched
Report ID: 391
Date: 12/1/2001
Author: Lance Haworth
Report Type: Press Release
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [articles-nsf.htm]
Country: European Union
Summary: The National Science Foundation (NSF) and the European Commission (EC) have expanded a program of workshops and funding of mutual research goals in materials science, to include nanotechnology. Under the cooperative program, research goals will be determined jointly by U.S. and European researchers. The collaborative research awards and joint workshops are being carried out under an agreement signed in December 1999 to cooperate in materials research and education. That agreement, an implementing arrangement under the U.S.-EC Science and Technology Agreement of 1998, establishes the framework for collaboration in areas such as the understanding of fundamental materials phenomena, materials synthesis and characterization, and the properties, processing and fabrication of advanced materials. International cooperation in materials research and nanotechnology helps advance NSF's goals to facilitate U.S. access to worldwide research, optimize U.S. investments in the global environment, foster the development of an internationally competitive work force and carry out the National Nanotechnology Initiative. In Europe, the cooperation furthers an EC program on competitive and sustainable growth.



Report Title: Nanotechnology, EU-US Co-operation: Material benefits
Report ID: 390
Date: 11/16/2001
Author: Renzo Tomellini
Report Type: Press Release
Publication: European Research Headlines
URL: [11-2001.html]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: On 25-26 October, representatives of the US National Science Foundation (NSF) and the Research Directorate-General of the European Commission met to discuss research co-operation in the fields of material sciences and nanotechnologies. These two bodies first began co-operating in December 1999 and the working relationship has since developed under the umbrella of the EU research program 'Competitive and Sustainable Growth'. It is of particular relevance in light of the growing importance of the nanotechnology sector on the global market, encompassing areas such as material sciences, precision engineering, electronics and biomedical applications. The scope of the arrangement between the European Commission and the NSF in the area of material sciences extends to program exchange opportunities for entities from the EU and the US; reinforced co-operation; coordinated calls for proposals; joint organization of scientific events; extensive information exchange; and training support.



Report Title: European Union and China Sign Cooperation Agreement
Report ID: 389
Date: 11/29/2001
Author: Daniel Descoutures, Michel Claessens
Report Type: Press Release
URL: [nano_pressrelease_011129_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Directorate-General for Research
Summary: On 22 October, the EU Research Commissioner, Philippe Busquin, and the Chinese Minister for Science and Technology, Xu Guanhua, will sign a cooperation agreement in the field of material sciences. This agreement will facilitate the participation of Chinese research organizations, including companies, in European research projects with Chinese funding and vice versa. Mr Busquin and Mr Xu Guanhua will also discuss the future of China-EU scientific cooperation within the context of the European Research Area and the New Framework Programme 2002-2006, and the preparation of a China-EU Science and Technology Forum that is due to take place in Beijing in 2002. International scientific cooperation, in particular with Europe, is one of the major priorities for China. It contributes to the necessary opening of the country to the outside world and to its integration in the world. From the EU’s point of view, the agreement provides access to a high-level scientific and technological expertise and should create markets for the research to be carried out.
Archived Copy: nano_pressrelease_011129_en_389_1809.pdf



Report Title: Preparing for Our Future: Developing a Common Strategy for Key Enabling Technologies
Report ID: 381
Date: 9/30/2009
Author: The Commission of the European Communities
Report Type: Guidance Document
URL: [communication_key_enabling_technologies_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Commission of the European Communities
Summary: In a comprehensive review of E.U. policy regarding key enabling technologies (KETs), such as micro- and nanoelectronics and photonics, the Commission finds that the design of an industrial policy framework for enabling high technologies needs to be founded upon a widely shared and broadly-based EU-wide strategic vision that includes a shared long-term vision and strong partnership will be required between the EU, its Member States, businesses and key stakeholders. One manifestation of this end is the establishment of a high-level expert group tasked with developing such a strategy. Emphasis should be placed on assessing the competitive situation of the relevant technologies in the EU, analysis of the available public and private R&D capacities for KETs in the EU, and propose specific policy recommendations for a more effective industrial deployment of KETs in the EU. For the immediate future, the current policy framework of state aid rules, trade aspects, access to finance within the forthcoming innovation act, and reinforcing existing initiatives and/or proposing direct actions in the field of specific enabling high technologies will remain intact.
Archived Copy: communication_key_enabling_technologies_sec1257_en_381_8848.pdf



Report Title: Commission Submits Plan for Keeping Europe at the Forefront of Nanotechnology
Report ID: 380
Date: 6/14/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The European Commission has proposed an action plan for nanosciences and nanotechnologies (N&N), which makes clear what the Commission and the Member States must do in order to keep Europe at the forefront in this field. Points for action address areas such as: investment in N&N; the strengthening of infrastructure; the generation of interdisciplinary experts; commercialization; dialogue with society; addressing health, safety and environmental concerns; and international cooperation.
The Member States are asked to increase public funding in research and development (R&D), to enforce coordination of R&D programs, and to raise awareness of N&N and funding opportunities within universities, R&D organizations and industry. The Commission emphasizes that concerns about the potential impact of N&N on health and the environment should not be ignored. The Commission concludes its proposal by highlighting that an integrated strategy cannot be implemented in a linear fashion, but requires coherent and coordinated action. A focal point for coordination of the strategy will therefore be established at EU level.



Report Title: Commission Defines Action Plan for Nanotechnologies
Report ID: 379
Date: 6/14/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: EurActiv.com
URL: [article-140902]
Country: European Union
Summary: On 7 June 2005, the Commission adopted an Action Plan (2005-2009) for the "immediate implementation of a safe, integrated and responsible strategy for Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies (N&N)" to ensure that Europe preserves its position as leader in this strategic field. This action plan complements the Commission’s strategy on life sciences and biotechnology. The Commission envisages several key policy elements, including: working towards common standards; fostering industrial exploitation of R&D on N&N by bringing together stakeholders to discuss best practices for commercialization, the societal, political and psychological barriers to entrepreneurship in Europe and license arrangements between industry and R&D organizations; and integrating risk assessment related to human health, the environment, consumers and workers at all stages of the life cycle of the technology.



Report Title: Majority of Europeans Support Increased Eu Research Budget, Reveals Survey
Report ID: 378
Date: 6/14/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: Around 60 per cent of European citizens believe that the EU should spend more on scientific research, according to the results of two new Eurobarometer reports on the public's perception of science and technology and the ethics that underpin them. The surveys were conducted face-to-face in people's homes between 3 January and 15 February this year, and covered all 25 EU Member States, the candidate countries (Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia and Turkey) and three of the EFTA countries (Iceland, Norway and Switzerland). On specific issues, Europeans appear to be surprisingly open to further research and development, given the controversy surrounding some of the topics in question. For example, a majority of citizens believe that biotechnology, genetic engineering and high-tech agriculture will have a positive effect on our way of life. Finally, those currently lobbying for a significant increase in EU funding for research will be encouraged to read that 71 per cent of citizens agree that collaborative research at EU level is growing in importance, and that 64 per cent feel that our economy can only become more competitive by developing and applying the most advanced technologies.



Report Title: Nanodialogue Project to Engage the Public in a Debate on Nanotechnologies and Nanosciences
Report ID: 376
Date: 6/30/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: To foster public debate on the societal and ethical issues raised by N&N, between researchers, citizens, civil society and business stakeholders of research in this field, the NanoDialogue project was recently launched under the European Union's Sixth Framework Programme (FP6). The project is based on a two-fold strategy: on the one hand, it aims to communicate the latest research developments in the N&N field to the general public, on the other; it will try to engage researchers, civil society and citizens in a social dialogue on nanotechnologies and their related science. The project partners include eight science centers around Europe, as well as ECSITE, the European Network of Science Centres and Museums. In order to include issues of social participation, the project consortium also includes the Centre for Studies on Democracy at the University of Westminster in the UK.



Report Title: Report Provides Comprehensive Analysis of Europe's Nano Infrastructure
Report ID: 373
Date: 8/5/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: Nanoforum, the thematic network funded by the EU under the Fifth Framework Programme (FP5), has produced a report detailing Europe's nanotechnology infrastructure and networks. Provisions and levels of development vary from country to country, but overall the report writers identified 240 infrastructures in twenty-eight countries. Of these 240, sixteen were classified as major EU research infrastructures. The report gives detailed information on policy, funding and infrastructure in twenty-eight countries. It starts with Austria, which has launched a number of initiatives to develop, strengthen and promote emerging technology fields for the future, including nanotechnologies. Another key player is Germany, which has been funding nanotechnology research activities in the context of its materials research and physical technologies programs since the late 1980s. The report concludes that, while capabilities vary according to country, 'much could be achieved through better publicity of existing infrastructure and providing further financial support for access'.



Report Title: Nanomedicine Vision Paper Unveiled at Euronanoforum
Report ID: 372
Date: 9/5/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: European Commission Research Industrial technologies
URL: [article_2971_en.html]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: By 2015, nanotechnology-based materials, products and services – including nanomedicines – are expected to form global markets worth hundreds of billion euro each year. As part of its continuing support for EU-level collaboration in nanotechnology and nanoscience (N&N) research, the European Commission has sponsored EuroNanoForum2005, whose showpiece is the launch of the vision paper, Nanotechnology for Health. The document highlights the three interrelated themes of nanodiagnostics and imaging, targeted drug delivery, and regenerative medicine, as the basis for a Strategic Research Agenda. It concludes that the EU should set up a European Technology Platform which will address the major scientific and socio-economic issues in providing high standards of healthcare across the population by focusing on breakthrough therapies in a cost-effective framework.



Report Title: Danish Food Researchers List Priorities for Fp7 and Underline Relevance of Nanoscience
Report ID: 371
Date: 9/1/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The food science thematic priority in the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) should address six specific areas, according to Denmark's Centre for Advanced Food Studies (LMC), an alliance between all Danish institutions working in food science. The six areas prioritized by LMC are: basic understanding of food and feed for intelligent innovation; systems biology in food research; biological renewal in the food sector/biological production; technology development; nutrigenomics; consumer needs-driven innovation and food communication. LMC believes that focusing on these fields would force an interdisciplinary and holistic approach. Further research could enable the production of food with specific properties deemed important for health, consistency, safety and appearance. LMC concludes by emphasizing that the developments outlined above depend upon collaboration within the fields of physics, chemistry, materials science, biology, molecular biology and medicine.



Report Title: All Potential Areas of Social and Environmental Impact Are Being Addressed by Eu Research, Claims Report
Report ID: 369
Date: 10/19/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The European Commission has published a report assessing the social and environmental aspects of European research. Its authors concede the difficulty in monitoring such qualitative impacts, but are nonetheless confident of the fact that all major areas of potential impact are being addressed, and that a number of success stories have arisen. The authors attribute this to the difficulty of assessing environmental and social performances with a standardized set of quantitative variables. The areas of social impact addressed by the report range from economic cohesion to public health and security. Environmental impact areas include water quality, climate change, noise and cultural heritage. The report notes how advances in technology have led to fears of a breach in human rights. The report calls for more to be done to assess social and environmental impacts in the future, preferably through the establishment of a monitoring and evaluation framework. 'Although ambitious, such an objective is achievable, provided that the necessary resources are earmarked to this end,' the report states.



Report Title: All Potential Areas of Social and Environmental Impact Are Being Addressed by Eu Research, Claims Report
Report ID: 368
Date: 10/19/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The European Commission has published a report assessing the social and environmental aspects of European research. Its authors concede the difficulty in monitoring such qualitative impacts, but are nonetheless confident of the fact that all major areas of potential impact are being addressed, and that a number of success stories have arisen. The authors attribute this to the difficulty of assessing environmental and social performances with a standardized set of quantitative variables. The areas of social impact addressed by the report range from economic cohesion to public health and security. Environmental impact areas include water quality, climate change, noise and cultural heritage. The report notes how advances in technology have led to fears of a breach in human rights. The report calls for more to be done to assess social and environmental impacts in the future, preferably through the establishment of a monitoring and evaluation framework. 'Although ambitious, such an objective is achievable, provided that the necessary resources are earmarked to this end,' the report states.



Report Title: Eu Funded Project Develops a Roadmap for Nanotechnology Applications
Report ID: 366
Date: 10/11/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: Current nanotechnology applications exploit existing knowledge to create advantages for existing products. But in the medium and long term, greatly improved, or even entirely new, technologies and applications are expected to emerge, initiating a new technological cycle. The objective of the NanoRoadMap (NRM) project, funded under the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6) is to carry out a ten year forecasting exercise to provide coherent scenarios and technology roadmaps for nanotechnology applications in three important industrial fields: materials; health and medical services; and energy. A two-step approach has been adopted for the project, consisting of a general report was prepared based on a survey of available information for each of the three sectors. Then, based on this picture and to avoid the roadmaps becoming too general, the topics that were deemed of the highest priority in each of the three fields were identified. The current roadmapping exercise focuses on twelve selected themes. NRM ends in December 2005, and the results of the roadmap exercise, based on surveys of thirty-five countries and opinions of experts from all over the world, will be presented at the international conference in Cologne, 'NanoSolution 2005', and at eight national conferences in the partners' countries.



Report Title: Commission Publishes Proposals for Fp7 Specific Programmes
Report ID: 361
Date: 9/22/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The European Commission has outlined its detailed plans for implementing the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) with the publication on 21 September of the proposed Specific Programmes. These Programmes have been produced for each of the four main pillars of FP7 - Cooperation, Ideas, People and Capacities - as well as for the Commission's in-house research facilities, the Joint Research Centre (JRC). As well as providing more details of the planned activities under each individual pillar of FP7, the Specific Programmes also identify a number of priority issues that cut across the Cooperation, People and Capacities programmes. The financial figures included in proposed Specific Programmes relate to the Commission's original proposals for the FP7 budget, adjusted for inflation over the seven year period (2007-2013), which aimed at roughly doubling the amount spent by the EU on research compared with FP6. Mindful that an agreement by Member States to double the EU research budget is still far from secured, the Commission published a memo alongside the Specific Programmes highlighting what its proposals could mean for Europe.



Report Title: What the Seventh Framework Programme Means for Europe
Report ID: 360
Date: 9/21/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: Europa - Press releases
URL: [pressReleasesAction.do]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: With 70 billion euros for the next seven years of European research, the European Commission is deadest on making the Seventh Framework Programme a worthwhile investment in Europe’s future. This report explores the impact of this investment by reviewing missed opportunities, past successes, and how this money will affect companies, universities, research institutes, and SMEs.
Archived Copy: MEMO-05-336_EN_360_3103.pdf



Report Title: High-tech Research Has High-impact Implications for Society, Economy
Report ID: 355
Date: 10/19/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: European research headlines
URL: [article_05_10_19_en.html]
Country: European Union
Summary: New materials, nanotechnologies and novel production processes are among the more exotic research areas supported by the European Union, and they remain a mystery to the public at large. The long-term impact of EU research projects in these fields is explained in the new ‘Research Impacts’ section of Research DG’s Industrial Technologies website. For example, the RECAM project has developed the technology to identify automatically carpet fiber types; and then put them through a solvent-free recycling process that produces raw material for new carpets and a useful residue that can be used for energy production. Another project featured on the long-term impact success story website is ECREAM which started to develop car rear-view mirrors that adjust their reflectivity automatically to compensate for glare from sunshine or headlights.



Report Title: The Opportunities and Challenges of Converging Technologies
Report ID: 354
Date: 10/19/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: As individual disciplines in their own right, information and communication technologies (ICT), biotechnologies and, increasingly, nanotechnologies, are transforming the way that many people live, presenting both opportunities and threats to society. Recognizing the potential significance of converging technologies, the European Commission established a working group in 2004 to consider the potential and risks. Their final objective was to produce a report that provides advice to the Commission and Member States on the opportunities and challenges presented by the convergence of key enabling technologies. A summary of the report and its recommendations was presented to MEPs at a workshop in Brussels on 18 October. As the group was charged with analyzing the issue in a specifically European context, it thus identified four likely characteristics of CT applications that each present both opportunities and threats to society. Their report concludes by offering 16 recommendations to policy makers at European and national level. Among them is the need to integrate a CT dimension in both the Sixth and Seventh Framework Programmes (FP6 and FP7). Under considerations of ethics and social empowerment, the report calls for a strict division to be maintained between military ambitions for CTs and their development in Europe. The mandate for the ethical review of European research projects should also be extended to include the ethical and social dimensions of CTs, it argues.



Report Title: Questions and Answers on Risk Assessment of Nanotechnology Products
Report ID: 353
Date: 10/20/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: Europa
URL: [pressReleasesAction.do]
Country: European Union
Summary: The following are six questions and corresponding answers which explain nanotechnology, the risks inherent in such technology, and what policies the European Commission has enacted thus far to ensure safe, viable regulation of nanotechnologies.
Archived Copy: MEMO-05-385_EN[1]_353_4351.pdf



Report Title: Nanotechnology: Commission Lauches a Consultation on How Best to Assess the Risks
Report ID: 352
Date: 10/20/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: Europa
URL: [enews.cfm]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Directorate General Health & Consumer Protection
Summary: The Commission is launching a public consultation on risk assessment methods for nanotechnologies. Nanotechnology involves the controlled production of new materials which have one or more dimensions thousands of times smaller than the diameter of a human hair. Industry is increasingly using nanotechnology for a wide variety of sectors, including healthcare, consumer products, information technology and the environment. The online consultation, which will run until 16th December 2005, aims to gather feedback on the appropriateness of current risk assessment methods for nanotechnology products and how they can be improved.



Report Title: Key Technologies for Europe Reports Recommend Six Pillars for a Research Strategy 'beyond Lisbon'
Report ID: 351
Date: 10/21/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: Fifteen expert reports on key research and technology domains for Europe's future are now available after having been debated at a recent conference on 'Key Technologies for Europe'. The final report compiled by the group of experts attempts to look beyond the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7) and the Lisbon Agenda to make recommendations for the future research priorities of the European Union. Attendees at the conference, in debating the conclusions of the expert group's foresight report, have made six recommendations for a research agenda 'beyond the Lisbon strategy'. The group, assembled by the European Commission, aims to produce recommendations for a research strategy that look towards an Eighth Framework Programme (FP8) and beyond. Both the report and conference attendees agreed that Europe must adopt a more optimistic and proactive approach to its research policy, while balancing conflicting aims and trends.



Report Title: Eu Science Ethics Group to Study Nanomedicine
Report ID: 350
Date: 10/25/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [article-146422]
Country: European Union
Summary: The Commission's third independent advisory group on ethics in Science (2005-2009) will tackle, as its first task, the ethical issues of carrying out research on nanomedicine. The European Group on Ethics in Science and New Technologies for 2005-2009 held its first meeting on 25 October 2005. The renewed mandate of the group now extends to all areas of application of science and technology and it will issue opinion either at the request of the Commission or on its own initiative. In its nanotech action plan 2005-2009 the Commission said it would ask the EGE to carry out an ethical analysis of nanomedicine to enable appropriate future ethical reviews of proposed European nanotechnology R&D projects. The previous EGE (2000-2005) issued five full opinions and a number of shorter reports. The issues covered include genetic testing in the workplace, stem cell research and stem cell biobanks, ICT implants in human body and clinical research in developing countries.



Report Title: China the Notable Exception in Growing 'nano Divide'
Report ID: 349
Date: 11/7/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The overwhelming majority of health-related nanotechnology patents are owned by organizations in the developed world, according to a new report, with China being the notable exception. Don Maclurcan, from the University of Technology in Sydney, Australia, carried out a survey of global nano-health patents filed between 1975 and 2004. The results, published in the AzoNano Online Journal of Nanotechnology, show that China owns 20 percent of internationally filed patents, second only to the US with 33 percent, and ahead of Germany with 13 percent. The report also highlights another cause for concern relating to international cooperation and dialogue; China was conspicuously absent from two recent major international meetings on nanotechnology. As the developing world's leading representative in the field, Maclurcan argues that China must engage with the international community in order to avoid a widening of the nano-divide.



Report Title: Nobel Excellence in Eu Research Projects
Report ID: 348
Date: 12/9/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: European research headlines
URL: [article_05_12_09_en.html]
Country: European Union
Summary: German scientist Theodor Hänsch will receive his Nobel Prize at the Award Ceremony in Stockholm, Sweden. His research group at the Max Planck Institute of Quantum Optics is also involved in the EU-funded research project, Conquest, studying quantum phenomena. And many more Nobel Laureates are teaming up with other European researchers to do joint research in current EU-funded projects. For example, there are seven former Nobel Prize-winners in medicine or physiology currently involved in projects funded by the EU’s Sixth Framework Programme (FP6). These range from a project using mouse models to understand synaptic physiology and pathology in the brain (EU-Synapses, €8 million in funding) to the Network of European Neuroscience Institutes (Eninet, nearly €1.3 million) – both of which include the German Nobel Laureate Erwin Neher. Having a Nobel Laureate in the group contributes more than just know-how and reputation; it can also provide a role model to younger researchers in the EU-funded project who may one day lead a team of their own to world-changing scientific discoveries.



Report Title: Nanotech - Risks for Health and Environment Need Assessment
Report ID: 347
Date: 10/24/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: EurActiv.com
URL: [article-146386]
Country: European Union
Summary: The Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR) recently adopted an opinion on "the appropriateness of existing methodologies to assess the potential risks of nanotechnologies". Delivered at Commission's request, the report concludes that current risk assessment methodologies require some modification to deal with hazards associated with nanotech. In particular, the existing toxicological and ecotoxicological methods may not be sufficient to address all of the issues arising from nanoparticles. Additionally, very little is known about the physiological responses to nanoparticles. A report from Nanoforum, a pan-European nanotechnology network funded by the EU, comes to the same conclusion as SCENIHR by stating that the most pressing issue in the current political debate on nanotechnology is the research on risks for health and environment of nanoparticles. The Nanoforum report also highlights the importance of realistically taking into account the long-term visions and scenarios of proponents and opponents of nanotech, including science fiction writers, as they influence public opinion.



Report Title: Small Talk
Report ID: 346
Date: 11/14/2005
Author: Volker Türk
Report Type: News Article
Publication: Parliament Magazine
URL: [Parl-Mag_Small_talk.pdf]
Country: European Union
Summary: The field of nanotechnologies (NT) has attracted widespread attention and funding in recent years. Estimates of the number of NT-based products and applications vary widely, but are generally in the hundreds of billions of dollars. The step from research to industrial applications has been short, and NT products as diverse as sun screens, cosmetics, water- and dirt-repellent textiles or scratch-resistant car paints are already on the market. However, public awareness of it is still low. The few studies available on the public’s perception of nanotechnology reveal that while few people are aware of it, those that are tend to view it favorably. Volker Türk argues that Nanologue is at the forefront of addressing concerns over the side-effects of nanotechnology, ranging from the toxic effects of nanoparticles to questions about genetic discrimination caused by advanced medical diagnostics.
Archived Copy: Parl-Mag_Small_talk_346_3614.pdf



Report Title: 'talking Nano’ Wins ‘best Forum Session’ Prize at Cer2005
Report ID: 345
Date: 11/17/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: Europa - Industrial Technologies
URL: [article_3328_en.html]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: Presentations of the Nano Dialogue, Nanologue and NanoBioRAISE projects formed the basis for a workshop on communicating nanotechnology at the CER2005 conference – which participants voted the event’s best forum session. Nanotechnology is already starting to deliver significant benefits in new or improved consumer products – but there is also widespread concern that it involves new risks. Public engagement and understanding is essential for nanotechnology’s acceptance, market potential and political governance. The workshop, which took place at the Communicating European Research 2005 conference in Brussels, set out to explore the challenges of communicating nanoscience to the general public by examining its novelty, its ethical, legal and social aspects, and the similarities and differences between the debate on nanotechnology and those surrounding other new technologies such as GMOs. The presentations were followed by a debate moderated by Richard Hayhurst, and conference participants subsequently voted the session the event’s best forum session, winning the presenters an award presented by Director-General for Research, Achilleas Mitsos.



Report Title: Research Round-up: Cer2005 Special
Report ID: 344
Date: 11/18/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: Europa - Gateway to the European Union
URL: [pe_articles_papers.htm]
Country: European Union
Summary: November 14th and 15th 2005 saw the second Communicating European Research conference, which was held at the Heysel Exhibition Centre in Brussels. Over 2500 scientists, media professionals and policy-makers came together for two days of debates, forums, training sessions and discussion groups on how better to communicate in the area of science and technology. The whole event was accompanied by an exhibition of some 240 stands, showcasing the best of European research. Participants were asked to vote for their favorite session, stand and speaker. New results of European research projects were presented in special press briefing sessions.
Archived Copy: MEMO-05-433_EN_344_2462.pdf



Report Title: Eu Nano-project Revs Up for Commercial Success
Report ID: 343
Date: 11/22/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: European research headlines
URL: [article_05_11_22_en.html]
Country: European Union
Summary: Researchers in Nano-FIB, an EU-funded nanotechnology project, have moved almost as fast as their invention’s ion beams in getting their technology out of the lab and ready for commercial rollout. Nano-FIB set out, in 2001, to take a gallium-based focused ion beam (FIB) and make it smaller and more precise. The team aimed to produce a controllable FIB ‘pencil’ or beam of energy less than 10 nanometers (nm) in diameter. Now, the Nano-FIB research team – a consortium of eight European research institutes and universities, and two SMEs – is now focused on making the new technology a business success as well. The EU supports research into this kind of technology because of its potential revolutionary impact across a broad range of industrial applications. The most familiar use of such small-scale fabrication technologies is for manufacturing microprocessors and other integrated circuits. Future possibilities include bio-medical research, where researchers are experimenting with new ways to isolate pieces of DNA.



Report Title: Descartes Prizes for Research and Science Communication – 2005 Winners Announced
Report ID: 342
Date: 12/2/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: Europa - Gateway to the European Union
URL: [pressReleasesAction.do]
Country: European Union
Summary: Outstanding European research teams in genetics, climate change, astronomy, social sciences and disease management, as well as innovative science communicators have today received the prestigious EU Descartes Prize from EU Commissioner for Science and Research, Janez Potocnik at a high level ceremony in London. The €1,000,000 Descartes Research Prize was shared this year between five pan-European teams who achieved major scientific breakthroughs in key European research areas. In addition to the winners, for the first time, prizes of €30,000 each were also awarded to the five runner-ups. Complementing the Descartes Prize for Research, the €250,000 Descartes Prize for Science Communication, now in its the second year, was shared between five exceptional science communicators for their success in bringing science and technology to wider audiences in Europe. The five runner-ups also received a €5,000 prize each.



Report Title: Marie Curie Awards Highlight Value of Mobility in European Research Careers
Report ID: 341
Date: 12/15/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The five winners of this year's Marie Curie Awards for mobile research excellence were announced at a ceremony in Dublin, Ireland, on 9 December. The awards, which were established in 2003, are designed to honor individuals that have received a Marie Curie Fellowship Grant to conduct research abroad, before going on to achieve excellent results in their chosen field of research. This year's winners included Sofia Calero, who was honored for her work in developing a computational approach for the design of multifunctional nanomaterials. Having completed a Marie Curie Fellowship in the Netherlands, Dr Caleo returned to Spain where she established her own research group.
The hope is that these winners, like those before them, will promote a positive image of science for other young people in Europe.



Report Title: Esf Report Warns of Threats to Europe's Early Leadership Position in Nanomedicine
Report ID: 340
Date: 12/21/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: Europe is currently at the leading edge of advances in nanomedicine, an emerging area of technology with the potential to transform medical care and research, according to a newly published report by the European Science Foundation (ESF). The 'Scientific forward look on nanomedicine' report follows two years of study by leading European experts, who were asked by ESF to define the field, assess its future impact on healthcare and society, characterize Europe's strengths and weaknesses, and provide recommendations on future research priorities and the required structural changes needed to ensure Europe's success. The report makes a number of recommendations designed to keep Europe at the forefront of nanomedical research and innovation. These include a strategic focus on nano-therapeutics for major diseases, the promotion of interdisciplinary education and training in nanomedicine, the development of a new regulatory approach for this new class of pharmaceuticals, and ensuring that politicians, the media and the general public are informed about the advantages and potential drawbacks of nanomedicines.



Report Title: Eu Project to Deliver Smaller and Cheaper Components for Laptops and Mobile Phones
Report ID: 339
Date: 12/21/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: A new EU funded project is set to help European companies in the microwave communication sector to mass produce and commercialise low-cost and environmentally friendly ferroelectric films for tuneable microwave devices and systems. Such films will lead to cheaper, smaller and energy-saving components for mobile communication devices such as laptops and mobile phones, and could potentially also be useful for optoelectronics and sensor applications. NANOSTAR, standing for nano-structured ferroelectric films for tuneable acoustic resonators and devices, is a specific targeted research project (STREP) supported with 2.8 million euro under the IST priority of the Sixth Framework Program (FP6). The three-year initiative gathers six academic, research and industrial partners from Sweden, the Netherlands, France, Switzerland and Russia, combining expertise and know-how in theoretical and experimental physics, materials science, manufacturing, device and system engineering. The main milestones of the project will be the development of industry-relevant fabrication processes for ferroelectric films with radically new properties; the validation of these processes via device demonstrators and, more generally, the generation of new knowledge in the physics of fabrication technologies.



Report Title: Nanomedicine Needs Regulatory Guidelines
Report ID: 338
Date: 6/29/2007
Report Type: News Article
Publication: EurActiv.com
URL: [article-151176]
Country: European Union
Summary: The European Science Foundation has conducted a two-year foresight study on nanomedicine, the medical application of nanotechnology. The study is first of its kind in Europe and states that the old continent is at "the leading edge of this new wave of technology". Thanks to the tiny size of nanoparticles, nanomedicine tools can manipulate biological systems of human body at a molecular level and may well revolutionize medical care and research. Though it notes that Europe is at the forefront of R&D in several areas of nanomedicine, the study also states that there is an urgent need to improve communication, interdisciplinary collaboration and nanomedical education. A regulatory process specific to nanomedical agents must also be created to help translate laboratory findings into clinical applications and marketable products. Otherwise, Europe risks losing the medical and economic benefits from the advances of nanomedicine.



Report Title: Rapid and Effective Diagnosis of Infectious Diseases
Report ID: 337
Date: 12/22/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The EU funded Optolab Card project is developing and mass producing a miniaturized optical laboratory on a card, allowing bacterial infectious diseases to be diagnosed in just fifteen minutes. The impact and spread of new pathogens is growing dramatically due to the increase in worldwide human mobility, in combination with trade in livestock, and food products. By the time the conventional tests have been completed (between 6 and 48 hours) an entire community or a large part of a population may have been exposed to the pathogen in question. The card could also improve the quality of health care systems, as it is expected to reduce hospital admissions, the time spent in hospital and the costs relating to diagnosis. Future applications of the laboratory card may include devices for genetic diagnosis of degenerative or genetic disorders, paternity tests, forensic medicine and environmental monitoring.



Report Title: Propagation of Avalanches in Magnets Assisted by Quantum Law
Report ID: 336
Date: 12/23/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: A new macroscopic physical phenomenon governed by quantum law, quantum magnetic deflagration, has been unveiled by a team of European researchers. The discovery, published in the American journal Physical Review Letters, could lead to future quantum and nano-information technology applications. The team, led by Javier Tejada, Professor of Fundamental Physics at the University of Barcelona, and Paul Santos, a researcher at the Paul Drude Institute in Berlin, have reported controlled ignition of magnetization reversal avalanches in Mn12 acetate. Mn12-acetate is a material widely used to study quantum tunneling, and a contender for use in magnetic memory storage and quantum computing. Based on their results, the research team has now applied for funding for a new European project, under the new and emerging science and technology (NEST) activity of the Sixth Framework Programme. This project would see an investigation into superrradiance, an effect and technological application related to the quantum magnetic deflagration.



Report Title: European Group on Ethics Report Assesses Past Work and Looks to the Future
Report ID: 335
Date: 12/30/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: A new report on the activities of the European Group on Ethics in science and new technologies (EGE) during its second mandate period (2001 to 2005) concludes that it has been functioning well as a adversarial body to the European Commission on all ethical questions relating to science and new technologies, either at the request of the Commission or on its own initiative. As well as reviewing the work carried out by the group over the previous mandate period, the report also provides the reflections of some of its individual members on the wider aspects of ethics in science and technology, and looks ahead to the evolution of the EGE's status and role under the next mandate. The next mandate period sees the EGE membership increasing from the current twelve to fifteen, in order to include experts from the new Member States and to bring in new competencies. Thanks to the increasing pace of development in science and technology, and in order to respond effectively to the Commission's operational needs, the report predicts that in future the EGE may occasionally be required to deliver preliminary ethical advice in a shorter time than is usually required for a full Opinion.



Report Title: Sticky Nano-solutions for Electronic Assembly
Report ID: 334
Date: 1/16/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: European Commission Research-Industrial technologies
URL: [article_3610_en.html]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: The incorporation of nanopowder fillers improves the performance of adhesives for flip chip electronic circuit assembly, the FP5 project Nanojoining has found. Flip chip electronics, in which bare integrated circuits and components are adhesively bonded face-downwards onto conductive bumps on printed circuit substrates, offer advantages in terms of size, performance, flexibility, reliability and cost over conventional wire-bonded circuitry. A key factor limiting progress has been the difficulty of producing adhesives that provide the appropriate electrical and thermal conductivity characteristics suitable for application at minimal layer thicknesses. Based on work carried out in the FP5 thematic network ‘Adhesives in Electronics’, the team at the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research (TNO) concluded that the incorporation of nanoparticle fillers could hold the answer. It therefore assembled a consortium, bringing materials and equipment suppliers together with industrial end users and other research institutes to form the 42-month Nanojoining initiative. Several of the partners will continue with individual and collaborative research efforts in what has proved to be an extremely promising field, with major implications for Europe’s future in the electronics sector and beyond.



Report Title: Nanotechnology: Innovation for Tomorrow’s World
Report ID: 333
Date: 1/16/2006
Report Type: Brochure
Publication: European Commission Research-Industrial technologies
URL: [nano_brochure_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: Already available in six European languages, this attractive and accessible introduction to nanotechnology has now been published in Swedish and Chinese – the first non-European edition. The brochure’s purpose is to explain nanotechnology for a general audience and thereby to stimulate public discussion. It provides a comprehensive picture of nanotechnology, describing the scientific background, technological developments, areas of application, and potential developments of the future.
Archived Copy: nano_brochure_en_333_2551.pdf



Report Title: Electricity Driving Force Behind MacRo-motor
Report ID: 332
Date: 1/27/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: A team from the University of Twente in the Netherlands has succeeded in manufacturing a macro-sized engine. The molecular motor is capable of turning chemical energy into movement in the same way a steam engine turns heat energy into movement. The motor has been found to have an efficiency of 5 percent, and has significant advantages over previous types of macro-motor. Firstly, the system is fully reversible, and secondly, the level of control is very high. Previous forms of motor have relied on the action of light to produce the motor effect, but this motor is smaller than a light wavelength and so cannot be seen. Because the macromotor can be very precisely placed and the current accurately applied, the macromotor could easily be used in future macro- or nano-devices.



Report Title: New Types of Water-repellent Leathers
Report ID: 331
Date: 1/30/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: European Commission Research Industrial technologies
URL: [article_3764_en.html]
Country: European Union
Summary: Production of quality leather in Europe is largely in the hands of small and medium-sized companies that can find it difficult to launch new technologies. An effective hydrophobising (water-repellent) treatment for leather extends its life and makes it more practical, but the traditional processes currently used by tanneries require the application of specific chemicals to impart water and stain resistance. The more luxurious, softer and natural leathers are liable easily to be marked or stained and cannot be treated easily by traditional processes without a concomitant losings of their organoleptic characteristics feel and aspect and thus much of their commercial value. The PlasmaLeather CRAFT project (Cold Plasma Treatment for New, High-Quality Water Repellent Leathers) aimed to adapt a cold plasma prototype process, developed for treating fabric, to a wide range of leathers. This process would enable give leathers to be superficially a hydrophobic surface without the using traditional water repellent agents and transform the sector into a knowledge-based high-tech industry. This, in turn, would extend the market for quality leathers and provide training opportunities and a better working environment for employees in the leather industry.



Report Title: Commission Requests Opinions on Nano(eco)toxicology
Report ID: 329
Date: 2/14/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: A consultation on nanotoxicology and nanoecotoxicology will remain open until 28 February.
In its nanotechnology action plan, the Commission undertook to ensure that appropriate research is undertaken to provide quantitative data on toxicology and ecotoxicology (including human and environmental dose response and exposure data), and to make sure that risk assessments are carried out. The information collected during the consultation will be used to identify priorities and potential actions. Contributions should address the following areas: research and development in nano(eco)toxicology, need for databases on toxicity (which information is needed and how should it be organized and managed), and 'poles of excellence' in nano(eco)toxicology.



Report Title: Uk Food Institute Urges Cautious Approach to Use of Nanotechnology in Food
Report ID: 328
Date: 2/16/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The UK's Institute of Food Science and Technology (IFST) has called for a cautious approach to the introduction of nanotechnologies in food, arguing that consumers must be assured that any such developments are necessary and safe. In an information statement on the use of nanotechnology in the food industry, published on 14 February, IFST says that most major food companies are monitoring the potential benefits of nanoscience. However, the IFST believes it is necessary to treat nanoparticles as new, potentially harmful materials that require rigorous safety testing. The safety and toxicological data submitted in support of applications for authorization should be available for peer review in the public domain, and the draft opinions of the authorizing authorities should also be made public, it adds. Finally, consumer choice and safety would be enhanced with the introduction of suitable traceability and labeling provisions, the statement concludes.



Report Title: Quantum Mapping Techniques Open Up Possibilities for Fuel Cells
Report ID: 327
Date: 2/17/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: More efficient fuel cells will soon be possible thanks to research carried out in Sweden by the Royal Institute of Technology in Stockholm (KTH), Uppsala University and Linköping University. These fuel cells are a priority for research because they can convert simple raw materials - hydrogen and oxygen - into electricity, with no polluting by-products other than water. Rather than trial-and-error researching, which is slow and costly, the team used quantum modelling techniques to rapidly test materials, which was both faster and cheaper than testing all of these materials in practice. Based on their discoveries, more efficient materials also mean that fuel cells will work at lower temperatures: current cells operate at around 1,000 degrees centigrade.



Report Title: Eu Project Creates Micro-robots
Report ID: 326
Date: 2/28/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The MICRON (Miniaturized Co-operative Robots advancing towards the Nano range) project, funded under the information society technologies (IST) priority of the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6) has succeeded in developing a tiny robot with the ability to move, and work successfully in medical, micro-assembly and atomic force experiments. The developments made under MICRON are now in the reporting and evaluation stage. Many of the technologies used here will be used again in the parallel I-Swarm project, which uses many of the same technologies.



Report Title: New Project Aims to Draw Women Into Nanotechnology
Report ID: 325
Date: 3/7/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The WomenInNano project aims to encourage women to take a more active interest in science, and especially nanotechnology, using experienced researchers in the field as ambassadors. Eleven women from Germany, Romania, Sweden, Spain, Slovenia, the UK, Bulgaria, Italy and France will act as 'ambassadors for women and science'. The team plan to publicize their work in order to provide the necessary role models and demonstrate that it is possible to be a senior figure in science and also be a woman. The project is grouped into three stages and will receive 500,000 euro in funding under the Science and Society priority of the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6).



Report Title: Europe Leads the World in Spintronic Materials Research
Report ID: 324
Date: 2/27/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: European Commission Research - Industrial Technologies
URL: [article_3886_en.html]
Country: European Union
Summary: With CMOS technology likely to reach the end of its development path during the next decade, ‘spintronic’ chips incorporating nanoscale magnets could form the memory and logic devices of the future. The Fenix project has been responsible for much development in this new field by achieving valuable synergy by combining what were initially separate studies into two different approaches to the development of magnetic/semiconductor heterostructures for such applications. In total, the consortium comprised fourteen institutes and universities, plus two industrial partners, together representing eight EU countries. Although much of the work of the sub-projects proceeded independently, joint meetings and the involvement of the coordinator, the Interuniversity Microelectronics Centre (IMEC – Belgium) in both research threads meant that interactions were strong and important strides were made in both fields.



Report Title: Marie Curie Fellows Reap the Rewards of Sustainable Agriculture
Report ID: 323
Date: 4/7/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: European research headlines
URL: [article_06_04_07_en.html]
Country: European Union
Summary: Former Marie Curie fellows Hubert de Jonge and Gadi Rothenberg won the Bayer CropScience Innovation Award 2006 for their patented filtration system. The filter has been fine-tuned, using high-tech nano-materials, to collect, sort and monitor numerous different solutes in soil and water. In addition to analyzing soil, their patented Sorbicell system can monitor nutrients and alien elements in drainage and surface water, as well as groundwater and wastewater. Bayer CropScience, a subsidiary of Bayer AG, said it set up the €10 000 Award to underpin its efforts to promote sustainable agriculture worldwide. The Sixth Framework Programme’s ‘Human resources and mobility’ scheme, with a budget of nearly €1.6 billion, largely funds training and mobility activities for researchers. These activities, known as the Marie Curie Actions, are aimed at developing and transferring European research competencies, consolidating and widening career prospects in research, and promoting excellence in the field.



Report Title: Raising Awareness of Nano-bio-technology and Its Ethical Issues
Report ID: 322
Date: 4/10/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The EU project NanoBio-Raise aims to help avoid the polarized debate surrounding genetic modification (GM) when it comes to the new applications made possible by the convergence of nano- and bio-technologies. The project coordinator Dr. David Bennett has the monumental task of distinguishing between biotechnology and nanotechnology while identifying ethical issues early and advising on how public concerns could be addressed. The project has assembled a panel of the leading ethicists that will work in conjunction with the project partners, from Belgium, Denmark, Germany, the Netherlands, Sweden and the UK, to guide the project's activities. In these ways NanoBio-Raise will build on the public consultation already carried out by NanoForum. The project will also liaise with other EU projects carrying out scientific research in this field, such as Nano2Life, and those engaged in public consultation, such as NanoDialogue and Nanologue.



Report Title: Nano 'switch' Bridges Biological and Nano-worlds
Report ID: 321
Date: 4/25/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The Sixth Framework Programme Mol-Switch project has succeeded under intense scrutiny and skepticism from experts in associated fields, such as biotechnology and biophysics. The project's aim was to produce an individual molecular 'nano-switch', which was developed over the course of three years under the aegis of the University of Portsmouth, UK; the National Physical Laboratory, UK; ENS/CNRS, France; TUDelft, the Netherlands; the University of Parma, Italy and the Institute of Microbiology in Prague, the Czech Republic. The nano-switch enables one form of energy to be transferred to another for a useful purpose, which makes it literally a building-block for the nano-world. It has the potential to act as an interface between muscle and external devices, as well as DNA sequencing.



Report Title: Report warns Europe over lack of patents, while EPO workers strike over increased workload
Report ID: 320
Date: 5/10/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: A new report warns that Europe is in danger of 'missing the boat' on commercial returns of nanotechnology, as the number of patent applications remain way below those from the US and Asia. The nanotechnology report, prepared by Marks & Clerk - a leading firm of patent and trademark attorneys, examines the rapid growth of patent applications in the US and Far East in three key areas of nanotechnology - nanoelectronics, nanoenergy and nanotechnology in health and personal care. The report states that patent applications are not matched in these areas in Europe, in spite of substantial investment in research in these fields to the extent that Europe did not contribute to this increase on a par with its competitors in the US and Asia. Although the Marks & Clerk report highlights the lack of patents coming out of Europe, examiners at the EPO believe that they are being asked to assess too many applications within too tight a timeframe. The EPO now plans to introduce a new system for assessing the work of the examiners which may not resolve the current strike.



Report Title: Nano-switch for Bio-silicon Communication
Report ID: 319
Date: 5/12/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: European research headlines
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: Against the odds, European researchers have developed a versatile molecular switch which could play a key role in vast nanotechnology applications, including motors, relays and biosensors. The EU-funded Mol-Switch project recently unveiled a working model, reports IST Results. Despite skepticism in the scientific world, English, French, Italian, Dutch and Czech scientists have been constructing a single-molecule DNA-sequencing device and accompanying nano-switch based on a biological molecular motor and a moving magnetic bead. It could one day be used as a communicator between the biological and silicon worlds, providing an interface between muscle and external devices used for implants, for example. A bonus application is in DNA sequencing – in this case, actually mapping the order of the four DNA-bases, which is a core step for genetic research.



Report Title: Nanodialogue Project to Engage the Public in a Debate on Nanotechnologies and Nanosciences
Report ID: 315
Date: 6/30/2005
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The development of nanotechnologies and nanosciences (N&N) is still at an early stage, though the market for nanotechnology-based products is expected to rise to hundreds of billions of euro by 2010. To foster public debate on the developments of research in this field, the NanoDialogue project was recently launched under the European Union's Sixth Framework Programme (FP6). The European Commission is supporting specific actions to communicate N&N under the FP6 research work-programme in 'Nanotechnologies and nano-sciences, knowledge-based multifunctional materials and new production processes and devices' (NMP). The NanoDialogue project, or 'Nanodialogue - Enhancing dialogue on Nanotechnologies and Nanosciences in society at European level One', is being supported with a budget of 850,000 euro. The project partners include eight science centers around Europe, as well as ECSITE, the European Network of Science Centres and Museums. In order to include issues of social participation, the project consortium also includes the Centre for Studies on Democracy at the University of Westminster in the UK.



Report Title: Eu Project Gives Insight Into Future of Nanotechnology
Report ID: 314
Date: 7/5/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: An EU funded project has published a series of roadmaps, providing an overview the current situation and future of nanotechnology in three fundamental sectors: materials, health and medical systems, and energy.

NanoRoadMap is funded under the 'nanotechnologies and nano-sciences, knowledge-based multifunctional materials and new production processes and devices' thematic priority of the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6). The NanoRoadMap consortium gathers eight research and industrial partners from the public and private sectors from the Czech Republic, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain, the UK and Israel. A total of twelve roadmaps are grouped into three sectoral reports, which give details of the properties of each technology, as well as the challenges and barriers to their current and future applications. The report predicts that nanomaterials will be developed the most over the next 10 years. One market that will see an impact is the medical sector. However, despite the huge expectations surrounding the use of nanoparticles for medical purposes, the technology is still at an early stage of development, and the report cautions that several problems – such as potential cell toxicity of available nanoparticles - need to be solved or circumvented to attain results. The report also finds that European industry is lagging behind its counterparts in the US and South East Asia.



Report Title: Do the Nano-sized Particles We Breathe Pose a Risk to Our Health?
Report ID: 310
Date: 9/14/2006
Author: Alison Elder
Report Type: News Article
URL: [nanomaterials_newsalert34na4_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Directorate General Environment
Summary: American researchers recently investigated the potential health risks of ultrafine particles in rats. The results show that the nano-sized materials inhaled by rats follow a rapid and efficient pathway from the nasal cavity to several regions in the brain. Exposure also caused signs of inflammation and stress. The ultrafine particles used in the study are the same size as nanoparticles, which are controversial due to concern about their safety. The authors of the study argue that, despite the differences between the human and rodent olfactory systems, the same pathway observed in rats for ultrafine particles is likely to be operative in humans, thus posing a risk to human health. Human exposure to high concentrations of nano-sized manganese oxide particles occur in certain occupational settings, such as arc welding. Therefore, it is important to consider the potential risk for the central nervous system of exposure to ultrafine particles and to further investigate the mechanisms and possible consequences.
Archived Copy: nanoforumeula_pressrelease_01022007_310_8226.pdf



Report Title: Towards an Open Dialogue on the Benefits and Risks of Nanotechnologies
Report ID: 308
Date: 10/2/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: A European project has developed a set of tools to help support a dialogue between scientists, policy makers and the public about the benefits and potential impacts of nanosciences and nanotechnologies. The aim of Nanologue, a project funded under the Sixth Framework Programme (FP6), is to promote an open and honest dialogue between scientists, policy makers and the public about both the potential benefits and pitfalls of nanotechnologies. The project is now drawing to a close. One of the main problems is that all too often people lump all the nanotechnologies together, so if something goes wrong in one field, all other fields are affected. The project also recommends that project results should be freely available, possibly through a single clearing house which brings together research from a range of different technologies. Finally, the debate needs to be more transparent. One major outcome was the creation of the Nanometer, an online tool which helps researchers and product developers identify areas which could raise ethical, environmental or societal concerns among future consumers. Another major outcome of the project is a set of scenarios which look at how nanotechnologies could develop between now and 2015. Meanwhile, the European Parliament has backed a report calling for more funding in nanotechnologies research, as well as a clarification of the legal and business environment for these technologies. The report also notes that an 'ethical approach' is essential to win public trust.



Report Title: CNRS Ethics Committee Publishes Nanotechnology Recommendations
Report ID: 307
Date: 10/18/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The Ethics Committee of the French National Centre for Scientific Research (CNRS) has published an opinion including eight recommendations on the ethical implications of nanosciences and nanotechnologies.
The eight recommendations include launching a debate with scientists, policy makers and the public, raising researcher awareness of the ethical dimension of their work, and creating mini guides on the ethical implications of nanosciences. The objective of the recommendations is not so much to develop ethically correct research, with a series of norms and interdicts, but on the contrary, to develop ethical vigilance through a series of measures aimed at encouraging ethical thinking on the values, the means and the ends of scientific research.



Report Title: Communication and Risk Assessment: Keys to Unleashing Nano-potential
Report ID: 305
Date: 10/20/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: When the science in question has evoked some controversy, politicians and scientists can be even less in step. But both were present at the European Forum on Nanosciences in Brussels on 19 October, and dancing to the same tune as they examined the potential of nanoscience and nanotechnology, raising awareness of this relatively young field, and risk and risk perception. A number of speakers agreed on the importance of involving the general public in nanoscience from the beginning. As debates in the media pick up speed over the risk of nanoscience on the one hand, and its potential on the other, politicians are however taking an interest. On 28 September MEPs adopted an own initiative report welcoming a Commission action plan on a safe, integrated and responsible strategy for nanosciences and nanotechnologies for the period 2005 to 2009. The report by Czech MEP Miloslav Ransdorf stresses the need to increase public investment in research as world-class infrastructure is needed if the EU is to remain competitive in nanoscience. The report also called upon the EU to clarify the legal and business environment for new nanotechnologies, and to create a nanoscience patent monitoring system governed by the European Patent Office.



Report Title: Report Urges More Research on Nanotech Safety
Report ID: 302
Date: 11/6/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: EurActiv.com
URL: [article-159422]
Country: European Union
Summary: A report criticizes the UK government's lack of progress in addressing uncertainties over health and environmental impacts of nanomaterials. The report, by the Royal Society and the Royal Academy of Engineering, accuses the UK government of slow progress in conducting research on the health and environmental impacts of free nanoparticles. It urges the government to control the commercial development of nanotechnologies until appropriate reseach has been conducted. Various sectors such as food, chemicals, electronics, cosmetics and medicine already use or are currently developing nano-applications. However, the behavior of nanoparticles inside the body (inhaled, swallowed, absorbed through skin or injected) is not yet known, as are the effects of free nanoparticles on the air or water.



Report Title: Germany Launches Nano Action Plan
Report ID: 301
Date: 11/6/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: German Minister for Education and Research, Annette Schavan, launched the 'Nano-initiative action plan 2010' on 6 November, which is intended to provide a single framework for action that goes beyond individual government departments, and which brings together goals and plans for nanotechnology. The initial focus will be on future fields, the creation of better framework conditions, responsible use of the technology and a comprehensive dialogue with the public. In the past year, Germany invested around €310 million in nano R&D. Some 600 companies are already involved in the development and use of nanotechnology products, employing around 50,000 people. The ministry predicts that many more jobs are yet to be created, particularly in start-ups and small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). A boom in market potential is also predicted - over €1 billion by 2015, according to the German ministry.



Report Title: Paper Assesses Nanotech Growth Predictions
Report ID: 294
Date: 12/13/2006
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: Nanotechnology has the potential to overtake biotechnology and be as profitable as information and communication technologies (ICT), according to a new staff working paper from the European Commission on the economic development of nanotechnology. The paper brings together analyses of the economic development of nanotechnology, assesses their findings, and seeks to pinpoint those that offer the most economic potential. The paper also offers a comparison of Europe and its competitors in the nano sector. It concludes that Europe is doing well, but must reduce the gap between itself and the US and Japan in many fields and for many indicators. In addition, Europe should observe developments in countries such as China, India and Russia. Much will depend on Europe's scientific excellence, and on the extent to which the continent is able to attract and retain the best nanotech workers and researchers and competitive infrastructure.



Report Title: Citizens Find Nanotechs 'elitist'
Report ID: 289
Date: 1/23/2007
Report Type: News Article
Publication: EurActiv.com
URL: [article-161106]
Country: European Union
Summary: A citizens' conference on nanotechnologies in France found public information on nanosciences difficult to access for non-specialists. The citizens addressed the issues of evaluation of risks linked to nanotech, ethics, communication and legislation and comment the fields of application of nanosciences, such as health, military or environment. A majority of the panel declared itself in favour of nanotechnologies, but emphasised that the economic benefits of nanotech could in no way be reached at the expense of ethics. The panel also recommends improving communication on nanotechnologies to the general public as it finds current information on the issue "elitist and reserved to specialists".



Report Title: Ethical Aspects of Nanomedicine: Opinion Presented to the Commission by the European Group on Ethics in Science and New Technologies
Report ID: 288
Date: 1/25/2007
Report Type: Press Release
Publication: EUROPA
URL: [pressReleasesAction.do]
Country: European Union
Summary: Following the request made by President Barroso on 10 November 2005, the European Group on Ethics in Science and New Technologies (EGE) chaired by Swedish philosopher Göran Hermerén yesterday handed the President its Opinion on the ethical aspects of nanomedicine. The Opinion focuses on ethics issues arising from nanomedicine but also discusses a number of problems raised by nanotechnology insofar as they concern primarily health-related issues. The EGE underlines the vital importance of addressing concern for safety with respect to nanotechnology, and argues that transparency is essential for public trust in nanotechnology. Additionally, the Group underlines the need for: prospective technology assessment; interdisciplinary research on the Ethical, Legal and Social Implications (ELSI) of nanomedicine; the establishment of a European Network on Nanotechnology Ethics; and enhanced information exchange between research ethics committees in different Member States or among competent bodies. As far as the legal implications of nanomedicine are concerned, the EGE does not propose any new regulatory structures specifically dealing with nanomedicine at this point, and argues that any changes should be made within existing structures.
Archived Copy: MEMO-07-32_EN_288_8306.pdf



Report Title: Catholic Plea for Broader Debate on Ethics of Nanomedicine
Report ID: 286
Date: 1/26/2007
Report Type: News Article
URL: [nf06~modul~showmore~folder~99999~scc~news~sci.....]
Country: European Union
Organization: nanoforum.org
Summary: The secretariat of the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Community (COMECE) recently published an opinion, produced by its Bioethics Reflection Group meeting of 17 October 2006 titled “Opinion on some ethical issues raised by Nanomedicine”. The COMECE insists that given the many uncertainties concerning the properties of nanoparticles, particular attention should be paid to a thorough risk assessment. The precautionary principle should therefore be applied in tandem with the “principle of initiative”. Risk research must be carried out rigorously without pressure from industrial or scientific circles. Political decisions taken in this area must be characterised by complete transparency, and a large debate is required. The COMECE group’s opinion does not assess whether current policy of the European Commission to promote responsible nanotechnology development is in line with the group’s recommendations.



Report Title: Ethics Group Publishes Opinion on Nanomedicine
Report ID: 285
Date: 1/29/2007
Author: European Commission
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: Addressing safety concerns related to advances in the nanomedicine field is of vital importance, according to the newly published 'Opinion on the Ethical Aspects of Nanomedicine' from the European Group on Ethics in Science and New Technologies. On safety, the group proposes that measures be established to verify the safety of nanomedical products and devices, and calls on the relevant authorities to carry out a proper assessment of the risks and safety of nanomedicine. The group recommends that there should be an EU website on ethics and nanomedicine, where citizens can find information and pose questions to researchers. Furthermore, academic and public debates should be held on the issues raised by forthcoming developments in nanomedicine. The report also places a strong emphasis on the importance of carrying out more research into the ethical, legal and social implications (ELSI) of nanomedicine. They also call on the European Commission to set up a dedicated European Network on Nanotechnology Ethics, financed through the Seventh Framework Programme (FP7).



Report Title: Experts Tell Eu to Prop Up Ethics in Nanomedicine
Report ID: 284
Date: 1/26/2007
Report Type: News Article
Publication: EurActiv.com
URL: [article-161222]
Country: European Union
Summary: Nanotechnologies can open up promising areas in diagnosis and treatment but measures are needed to ensure that related medical products and devices are safe, scientific experts told the Commission. The European Group on Ethics in Science and New Technologies (EGE) advising the Commission on science ethics delivered its opinion on ethical issues raised by medical developments such as nanotech-based drugs and nano-scale treatment devices on 17 January.
The group recommended establishing measures to verify the safety of products, organizing academic and public debates on problems and possibilities posed by present and near-future nanomedicines, and creating a 'European network on nanotechnology ethics'.



Report Title: Report Outlines Vision for Nanomedicine in Europe
Report ID: 282
Date: 2/1/2007
Author: European Commission
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: Recognizing the potential of nanotechnologies in combating serious diseases and the leading role played by Europe in this novel technology, the European Commission launched a European Technology Platform on nanomedicine, with the goal of defining a European Strategic Research Agenda on nanomedicine. The main aim of the vision paper, entitled 'Nanomedicine - Nanotechnology for Health', is to put forward a sound basis for decision making processes for policy makers and funding agencies, providing an overview of needs and challenges, existing technologies and future opportunities in nanomedicine. The Strategic Research Agenda (SRA) takes into consideration education and training, ethical requirements, the benefit/risk assessment, public acceptance, the regulatory framework and intellectual property issues, for the benefit of regulatory bodies in EU Member States, candidate countries and associated states. Meanwhile, the European Group on Ethics has published an opinion on nanomedicine, specifying that safety concerns should be a priority in the development of new techniques and treatments.



Report Title: Life Cycle Assessment Should be Applied to Nano-products, Say Experts
Report ID: 274
Date: 3/20/2007
Author: Project on Emerging Technologies
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Organization: Publications Office of the European Union
Summary: Life cycle assessment (LCA), the cradle-to-grave assessment of the health and environmental impacts of a product or substance, is vital for the successful and safe commercialization of nanotechnologies, according to a new report drawn up by European and American experts. The report is based on the outcomes of a recent workshop on nanotechnologies and life cycle assessment, organized jointly by the European Commission and the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies, an American initiative set up by the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars and The Pew Charitable Trusts. The LCA is widely used in a number of fields to evaluate the environmental and health impacts of a new product from the start of production, right through to its disposal, yet until now it has not been widely applied to nanotechnologies. The report concludes that the existing standards for carrying out LCAs are fully suitable for use on nanomaterials and nanoproducts. However, one serious problem identified in the report is a lack of data. To remedy this paucity, authors suggest researchers prioritize their studies by toxicity, nature of dispersion and volume of production. Furthermore, they call on governments, academia, and industry to set up research programs to develop LCA methodologies in the field of nanotechnologies and to establish databases of LCA case studies on nanotechnologies without compromising competitiveness in the case of the latter.



Report Title: The Future is Plastic Electronics
Report ID: 273
Date: 3/9/2007
Author: CORDIS News interview with Plastic Logic
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Organization: Publications Office of the European Union
Summary: A new electronics industry appears to be on the verge of exploding on the scene in Europe, and one company is at the forefront of this pioneering development. Earlier this year, the UK technology start-up Plastic Logic announced that it had secured $ 100 million worth of venture capital to help build the world's first commercial plant for plastic electronics manufacture. The main function of the factory will be to scale up commercial production of displays that its creators claim are almost as flexible and have the same look and feel as paper. Plastic Logic, which was spun out of Cambridge University's Cavendish Laboratory, participated in two EU funded projects, Discel and Naimo, under the Fifth and Sixth Framework Programmes respectively. In Naimo, it took a leading role in developing the nanofabrication techniques now to be used in manufacturing the smart plastic materials found in the novel flexible displays. That said, many of the giants of the electronic world are now eager to get a slice of the plastic electronics action. From Franco-US group Alcatel-Lucent to Philips of the Netherlands, and from Japan's Hitachi to Samsung of South Korea, all are working on plastic semiconductors or at least monitoring how they develop.



Report Title: Six Nanotechnologies to Reduce Carbon Emissions
Report ID: 272
Date: 3/14/2007
Author: Cietifica
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: With concern over climate change escalating around Europe, a new report highlights six nanotechnologies that can be used to reduce carbon emissions. The six technologies identified by the UK-based company Cientifica – specifically aerogels, thin film solar cells, fuel-borne catalysts, fuel cells, supercapacitors, and nanocomposite materials – are either available now or will be on the market within the next two years.



Report Title: Researchers Develop Hard Nanomaterial to Rival Diamonds
Report ID: 271
Date: 3/20/2007
Author: Nanoforum
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: French and German researchers have come up with a non-carbon material, which they claim is almost as hard as a diamond. The material, which is made out of thermodynamically stable boron nitride, is also much more resistant to fractures than a polycrystalline diamond. The team, composed of researchers from Universities of Heidelberg, Bayreuth, Paris and Grenoble, developed the new material by reducing the size of boron nitride grains from micron to nanoscale. Using a 5,000 ton scientific press, the boron nitride was then synthesized at a range of high pressures and temperatures. Although the hardness of new material developed by the team is still lower than that of a diamond (85GPa), the researchers believe that the discovery will lead to the development of even harder, tougher and more thermally stable materials that could one day rival the diamond.



Report Title: Japan and Germany to Collaborate on Nanoelectronics
Report ID: 270
Date: 3/28/2007
Author: German Research Foundation
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The Japan Science and Technology Agency and German Research Foundation have launched a new scheme for joint funding of Japanese-German cooperative research projects. The aim of the program is to strengthen the collaboration between the two countries in their chosen field of 'Nanoelectronics' to achieve world-class scientific results, leading to new innovative technologies. The two partners have agreed to fund projects in the following areas: materials and nanostructures for spintronics; scanned probe approach and atomic scale transport; molecular approaches for electronics and photonics; metal and semiconductor spintronics, semiconductor nanoelectronics; micro, nano electro mechanical systems; nanophotonics and related-technology.



Report Title: Scientists to Build 'self-healing' House for Earthquake Protection
Report ID: 269
Date: 4/4/2007
Author: University of Leeds
Report Type: News Article
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The new EU funded project Intelligent Safe and Secure Buildings is currently behind an attempt to build a high-tech villa that can resist earthquakes by 'self-healing' cracks in its own walls and monitoring vibrations through sensors. The NanoManufacturing Institute, based at Leeds University, UK, is playing a key role in the €14 million project, the aim of which is to construct the intelligent regenerative home on a Greek mountainside by December 2010. If the experiment proves successful, more earthquake-resistant homes could be built in danger zones known for their seismic activity across the globe.



Report Title: Jury to Judge Scanning Probe Microscopy Images
Report ID: 268
Date: 4/6/2007
Author: UAM
Report Type: Press Release
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: Nominations for the international scanning probe microscopy image prize are currently open. The competition has three aims: to recognize the contributions of countless scanning probe nanotools developed over the last 20 years, to make public the beauty seen during nano studies, and to showcase the contribution made by scanning and probe microscopy to nanoscience and nanotechnology. An international jury of prominent researchers will judge the images submitted. The jury will take account of both scientific and artistic merits.

Archived Copy: Jury to judge scanning probe microscopy images_268_7777.doc



Report Title: Finland and China to Cooperate on Nanotechnology Research
Report ID: 267
Date: 4/11/2007
Author: Tekes
Report Type: Press Release
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: Finland and China have launched a joint cooperation program for nanotechnology research and development (R&D), the Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation (Tekes) has announced. According to Tekes, the Chinese were impressed by the high quality of nanotechnology research in Finland, and its strong focus on commercialisation and industrialisation. Over the past few years, Tekes has worked hard to build bridges linking the Finnish and Chinese research communities; it has offices in Beijing and Shanghai and has cooperation agreements with the leading Chinese provinces involved in R&D.
Archived Copy: Finland and China to cooperate on nanotechnology research_267_8253.doc



Report Title: Commission Launches Public Consultation on Nanomaterials Risk Assessment
Report ID: 266
Date: 4/16/2007
Author: European Commission
Report Type: Press Release
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: The European Commission has launched a public consultation on whether current EU chemical risk assessment methodologies are appropriate for evaluating the risks associated with nanomaterials. Stakeholders are invited to give their views on an opinion issued by the Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks. The report concludes that while existing methodologies are likely to identify hazards to human health, there is no clear evidence to suggest that these techniques are appropriate for validating the environmental impact of nanomaterials.
It additionally provides proposals for general and specific modifications of risk assessment of human health and the environment and describes a staged strategy for the risk assessment of nanomaterials.
Archived Copy: Commission launches public consultation on nanomaterials risk assessment_266_3970.doc



Report Title: Conference on Therapeutic Nano-objects
Report ID: 265
Date: 5/8/2007
Author: The French National Institute for Health and Medical Research (INSERM)
Report Type: Press Release
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: An international conference on therapeutic nano-objects will take place on 12 June in Evry, France. The event will highlight the various dimensions of research in nano-biotechnologies and will include speakers from academic research, small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs), industry and the French Regulatory Agency. In addition to basic biological sciences and clinical medicine, dedicated sessions will address regulation, public and political perception and education.

Archived Copy: Conference on therapeutic nano_265_1279.doc



Report Title: Ministers Hope to Reach Jti Decision in November
Report ID: 264
Date: 10/1/2007
Author: Council of the European Union
Report Type: Press Release
Publication: CORDIS News
URL: [fetch]
Country: European Union
Summary: Europe's research ministers hope to adopt a final decision on Joint Technology Initiatives (JTIs) in November, enabling the four JTIs proposed so far to get underway in 2008. According to the ministers, the JTIs should be set up under Community law as Community bodies, and should take the form of real public/private partnerships with a shared responsibility of industry in the management of the joint undertakings. Furthermore, they will will have a limited duration of 10 years. The ministers asked the preparatory bodies to continue their technical work based on the Council's decisions, so that a final decision on the JTIs can be made at the November Competitiveness Council.
Archived Copy: Ministers hope to reach JTI decision in November_264_7137.doc



Report Title: The 7th Eu Framework Programme for Research and Technological Development Gives Substantial Support to Nanotechnology During Its First Year of Implementation
Report ID: 262
Date: 3/1/2008
Author: Renzo Tomellini
Report Type: Press Release
URL: [press_release_2008_march.doc]
Country: European Union
Summary: The European Commission is active on developing a policy framework for the integrated, safe and responsible development of nanotechnology, and the funding of research. The new seventh framework will provide a major funding source for nanotechnology research up to 2013, with the expectation that it will more than double the funding attributed to the previous framework. Moreover, the Commission has adopted two policy documents: First Implementation Report of the Commission's Action Plan for Nanotechnology, and Recommendation on a Code of Conduct for Responsible Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies Research. The Commission services involved in nanotechnology policy and funding collaborate closely within a variety of institutions, ranging from competent offices in Member States to international organizations such as OECD.
Archived Copy: press_release_2008_march_262_6358.doc



Report Title: Overview on Promising Nanomaterials for Industrial Applications
Report ID: 261
Date: 10/1/2005
Author: NanoRoad SME
Report Type: Fact Finding Report
URL: [overview_nanomaterials.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: The objective of the study was to identify the relevant nano-materials with high potential for future industrial applications. Seven main material categories were chosen and for each of them a well-structured report has been prepared which summarizes all the important information on existing studies and
national reports, projects, patents and interviews of experts as well as on a literature survey. The R&D studies were divided in seven categories and give an actual picture of the nanomaterials domain. This brochure summarizes the relevant results of these seven reports in order to give an short overview of the trends, properties and possible applications in the different material categories.
Archived Copy: overview_nanomaterials_261_7274.pdf



Report Title: Strategic Research Agenda of the European Technology Platform Nanoelectronics
Report ID: 260
Date: 11/1/2005
Author: ENIAC Executive Steering Committeee
Report Type: Advisory Report
URL: [strategic_research_agenda_full.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Nanoelectronics Initiative Advisory Council
Summary: This document was prepared by the ENIAC Working Group for the Strategic Research Agenda on behalf of the ENIAC Steering Committee. It is the extended and detailed successor of the Executive Summary presented at the European Nanoelectronics Stakeholder Forum on April 27, 2005, in Brussels.The Strategic Research Agenda will be revised every two years, with interim updates to be issued when needed.The Strategic Research Agenda is the concerted action of experts from industry, academia, and public authorities across the European Union.
Archived Copy: strategic_research_agenda_full_260_5843.pdf



Report Title: Nanotechnology and Construction
Report ID: 259
Date: 11/1/2006
Author: Surinder Mann (Institute of Nanotechnology)
Report Type: General Report
Publication: Nanoforum
URL: [nf06~modul~showmore~folder~99999~scid~425~.html]
Country: European Union
Organization: nanoforum.org
Summary: This report describes the impact that nanotechnology is having in the construction industry. It includes an analysis of applications in concrete; steel; wood; glass; coatings; fire protection and detection; and sustainability and the environment. A survey of experts in the construction industry reveals their opinions on the understanding of nanotechnology by the industry, where R&D is going and what might be needed to achieve these goals.
Archived Copy: Nanotech and Construction Nanoforum report_259_9089.pdf



Report Title: Nanotechnology in Consumer Products
Report ID: 258
Date: 10/1/2006
Author: Michael Gleiche, Holger Hoffschulz, Steve Lenhert
Report Type: General Report
Publication: Nanoforum
URL: [nf06~modul~showmore~folder~99999~scid~421~.html]
Country: European Union
Organization: nanoforum.org
Summary: More and more consumer products are branded with the buzzword “nano” or nanotechnology. Are we witnessing the onset of an emerging technology or is it just a sophisticated advertisement strategy? If the technology is true, what is the added value to certain products and does the consumer really benefit? In general the products claiming to contain nanotechnology do indeed exploit nanoscale effects, primarily interface effects but also a few quantum effects. Interestingly, the products that proudly use the “nano” brand are only a small percentage of the number of consumer products that actually contain nanotechnologies, for instance in the microelectronics, cosmetics, pharmaceutical and food industries. The following report focuses on consumer products emerging in various commercial sectors which claim to have nanotechnological products on the European market.
Archived Copy: Nanotechnology in Consumer Products_258_8415.pdf



Report Title: Final Report: COST Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Advisory Group
Report ID: 257
Date: 2/6/2003
Author: Prof. Dr. Jaroslav Cihlar and Dr. Eberhard Seitz
Report Type: General Report
URL: [nanostag-final-report.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: The emerging field of nanoscience and nanotechnology research had been identified by the COST CSO in the mid 1990's. Due to its multi- and interdisciplinary character the greatest advances in this field are expected to occur at bridges between the classical disciplines represented within COST by the Technical Committees. Therefore the CSO set up in 1997 the Ad hoc Working Group on Nanoscience (AHGN), then in 2000 as follow up the Nanoscience and Nanotechnology Advisory Group (NanoSTAG), in order to stimulate and monitor activities in this field within COST as well as to look for synergy and complementarity to activities outside COST, especially in the Framework Programme of the European Commission. Eighteen COST countries nominated experts to NanoSTAG, with subsequent NanoSTAG plenary meetings that were attended by additional representatives from outside COST. Considering that NanoSTAG’s mandate terminates in March 2003, a new COST ad hoc group was presented to the Chairpersons of the relevant COST Technical Committees and Management Committees. Although a technically new group, many of the key players are already actively involved in COST. The proposal met with majority approval. This is the summary origin for NanoSTAG’s recommendation in this report for creating a Strategic Group on Nanoscience and Nanotechnlogy (working title NanoTech) for three years with firmly defined composition and tasks.
Archived Copy: nanostag-final-report_257_3875.pdf



Report Title: From Scientific Excellence to Innovative Business: Is Europe on Track to Make the Nanotechnology Transition?
Report ID: 256
Date: 3/1/2003
Report Type: Information Sheet
Publication: Third European Report on S&T Indicators 2003
URL: [3rd_report_snaps5.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Directorate-General for Research
Summary: For Europe to secure its position in tomorrow’s global knowledge-based economy it has to demonstrate excellence in key technologies such as nanotechnology. These emerging key technologies potentially have large social and economic benefits. In the nanotech industry, however, the move from the academic to the commercial stage has not yet been made. Will Europe be able to successfully make this transition? Indications are that it will. Partially because of the wide availability in the 1990s of European public (including substantial European Commission) funding, Europe is currently leading the way in terms of scientific performance and performing well in terms of patenting. But will we be able to keep up this performance? Research Commissioner Philippe Busquin strongly believes that it should. Nanotechnology has been declared a priority under the 6th Framework Programme for Research (FP6), and is being allocated substantial budgetary means (Indicative budget FP6: 1 300 million Euro). The European Commission is also continuing its key support for European wide nanotechnology research networks. Some 49 of which were identified in 2000.
Archived Copy: 3rd_report_snaps5_256_2509.pdf



Report Title: Third European Report in Science and Technology Indicators 2003
Report ID: 255
Date: 1/1/2003
Author: Phillipe Busquin, Ugur Muldur, Jean-François Marchipont
Report Type: General Report
Publication: European Commission Studies
URL: [3rd_report.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Directorate-General for Research
Summary: Since the recent summits at Lisbon and Barcelona where EU governments affirmed the status of research policy as a central pillar of Europe’s strategy towards the knowledge-based economy, research policy has been cited among the core missions of the Union. In order to improve the coordination and effectiveness of research policies in Europe, it is essential that policy makers have at their disposal a common information base about European research trends and performances. The European Report on Science and Technology plays a valuable role in this respect, providing a shared information resource which presents policy-relevant S&T indicators and analyses. The in-depth analyses in this report are intended to complement the more compact Key Figures publication which DG Research also produces every year. This 3rd edition of the European Report has changed in content and layout compared with its predecessor. The new structure focuses on Europe’s investment and performance in the knowledge based economy, and pivots around the policy challenges emerging from the Lisbon and Barcelona summits. The analyses are generally based on the latest internationally comparable data, but there is a permanent need to develop new and better indicators. With that in mind, they have, for this issue, tried to introduce some innovative measures, such as the new composite indicators for the knowledge-based economy.
Archived Copy: 3rd_report_255_2387.pdf



Report Title: Nanotechnology References
Report ID: 254
Date: 12/1/2003
Author: Yann Power and Christine Spoiden
Report Type: Information Sheet
Publication: Eurotech Data
URL: [eurotech_nanoreferences.pdf]
Country: European Union
Summary: This document lists references on nanotechnology, based on reports compiled by Eurotech Data for Research Directorate General of the European Commission on nanotechnology subjects since 2001, and quarterly updates since mid 2003. All data is structured, classified, and ranked in an organized manner. This latest version includes the edition of 103 articles, 2 market studies, new information on 21 companies, 18 research groups, 1 R&D promotion agency as well as two new chapters.
Archived Copy: eurotech_nanoreferences_254_8915.pdf



Report Title: Nanotechnology in the Candidate Countries (Updated Version)
Report ID: 253
Date: 3/1/2004
Author: Gerd Bachmann, Morten Bøgedal, Antonio Correia, Holger Hoffschulz, Signe Holm
Report Type: Fact Finding Report
Publication: Nanoforum.org
URL: [Nanotechnology%20in%20the%20Candidate%20Count.....]
Country: European Union
Organization: nanoforum.org
Summary: This is an updated version of the first Nanoforum Report titled "Nanotechnology in the Candidate Countries." This new version includes the information submitted by the participants in the first Nanoforum Eastern European workshop, which was held during
October 5-7, 2003 in Sinaia, Romania. It also added in contributions delivered to the nanoforum from researchers who are involved on nanotechnology in the research networks and universities of the Candidate Countries.
Archived Copy: Nanotechnology in the Candidate Countries_253_7402.pdf



Report Title: Education Catalogue for Higher Education
Report ID: 251
Date: 3/1/2005
Report Type: General Report
Publication: Nanoforum.org
URL: [nf06~modul~showmore~folder~99999~scid~292~.html]
Country: European Union
Organization: nanoforum.org
Summary: The Education Catalogue is to be used as a complete handbook for people in the university system (professors, students, career advisors, etc) on the education opportunities available related to nanoscience and nanotechnology in the EU and associated states. The Education Catalogue offers a complete landscape of the possibilities offered by the European educational systems to broaden knowledge in nanoscience and nanotechnology through specialised courses. All graduate, undergraduate and short courses in the EU Member States and the Associated States are described in this document. Contact details are also included.
Archived Copy: Education Catalogue 0305_251_4633.pdf



Report Title: Outcome of the Open Consultation on the European Strategy for Nanotechnology
Report ID: 250
Date: 12/1/2004
Author: Ineke Malsch and Mireille Oud
Report Type: Study
URL: [nanosurvey6.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: nanoforum.org
Summary: Nanotechnology is emerging as one of the key technologies of the 21st Century and is expected to enable developments across a wide range of sectors that can benefit citizens and improve industrial competitiveness. However, there are concerns that some aspects of nanotechnology may introduce new health, environmental and societal risks, which need to be addressed. In May 2004 the European Commission published the Communication “Towards a European Strategy for Nanotechnology” in which an integrated and responsible approach was advocated. This Communication has been discussed at the political level in the European Council under the Irish and Dutch Presidencies. The aim of the survey conducted by Nanoforum was to assess the wider response to the Commission’s proposed strategy and provide input to shape future European initiatives.
Archived Copy: nanosurvey6_250_3835.pdf



Report Title: Social Values, Science, and Technology
Report ID: 249
Date: 6/1/2005
Author: Eurobarometer
Report Type: Study
URL: [ebs_225_report_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Directorate-General for Research
Summary: European society is a rich cultural tapestry, made up of heterogeneous ethical, religious, historical and philosophical backgrounds, which can often lead to divergent positions on ethical issues in science. While respecting cultural differences within Europe, the European Commission is aiming to promote science and research which respects fundamental ethical principles. Since the early 1990s, the European Group on Ethics has been helping to find common European positions, while respecting national identities. In this context, the Directorate-General Research commissioned a poll on Europeans views on ethics in science and technology. Interviews were conducted face-to-face in people’s homes in their national language between January 3rd and February 15th 2005. The underlying objective of this analysis was to determine Europeans’ views on social values and ethics, and citizens’ perceptions of actors involved in science and technology as well as the decision-making procedure. The final objective is to assess the perceived influence of ethics on science and technology in the
future.
Archived Copy: ebs_225_report_en_249_2750.pdf



Report Title: Europeans, Science, and Technology
Report ID: 248
Date: 6/1/2005
Author: Eurobarometer
Report Type: Study
Publication: Eurobarometer
URL: [ebs_224_report_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Directorate-General for Research
Summary: In light of the consistent problem of transparency
between scientific and technological issues and the information and perception European citizens have on these, the Directorate-General Research has commissioned a new poll on Europeans’ experience and perception of science and technology, similar to those already conducted in 2002, 2001 and 1992. Interviews were conducted face-to-face in people’s homes in their national language over a month-long period. The report presents the principal results obtained and attempts to highlight the main changes noted since the earlier Eurobarometer surveys. Particular emphasis is placed on European citizens’ interest and level of information, image and knowledge of science and technology, attitudes towards science and technology, responsibilities of scientists and policy-makers, and the public’s perception of European scientific research.
Archived Copy: ebs_224_report_en_248_4649.pdf



Report Title: Nanotechnology - a Key Technology for the Future of Europe
Report ID: 247
Date: 7/1/2005
Author: Olivia Saxl
Report Type: General Report
URL: [saxl_nano_future_of_europe.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Institute for Nanotechnology - European Commission Expert Group on Key Technologies
Summary: The objective of this report is to provide a vision for nanotechnology research in Europe, though the context of the report must be global. The report considers nanotechnology as a possible route to identifying solutions to the new and disturbing challenges highlighted in the Millennium Ecosystem Assessment Synthesis Report. It furthermore may provide a part of the answer on how to create alternative lifestyles for the population that will be in harmony with the planet. The EU can play an important role in this, by putting the planet centre stage in the next Framework Programme for Research.
Archived Copy: saxl_nano_future_of_europe_247_4842.pdf



Report Title: Nanotechnology and Its Implication for the Health of the EU Citizen
Report ID: 246
Date: 12/1/2003
Author: Morten Bøgedal, Michael Gleiche, Jean-Charles Guibert, Holger Hoffschulz, Sandrine Locatelli, Ineke Malsch, Mark Morrison, Carole Nicollet, Volker Wagner
Report Type: Fact Finding Report
Publication: Nanoforum.org
URL: [Nanotechnology%20and%20its%20Implication%20fo.....]
Country: European Union
Organization: nanoforum.org
Summary: Healthcare is affected by a large number of social and economic factors. The global healthcare markets are worth several hundred billion euros per year, with pharmaceuticals accounting for the majority of that worth. This report provides an overview of the pharmaceutical and medical device sectors of the healthcare market, and the impact that nanotechnology is having on those areas. This assessment is includes a focus on diagnostics, drug discovery and delivery, surgery, tissue engineering and implants. Future developments utilizing nanotechnology are discussed and links supplied to European funding sources, web and literature resources, and companies that are actively using nanotechnologies to develop products for healthcare.
Archived Copy: Nanotechnology%20and%20its%20Implication%20for%20the%20Health%20of%20the%20EU%20Citizen%20(18.12.03)_246_3842.pdf



Report Title: Benefits, Risks, Ethical, Legal and Social Aspects of Nanotechnology
Report ID: 245
Date: 6/1/2004
Author: various
Report Type: General Report
Publication: Nanoforum.org
URL: [nf06~modul~showmore~folder~99999~scid~341~.html]
Country: European Union
Organization: nanoforum.org
Summary: In this report, the Nanoforum consortium presents the present state of the art of the public and scientific debate on benefits, risks, and ethical, legal and social implications of nanotechnology in Europe and other parts of the world. It also gives an overview of relevant research groups, funding programs, projects and networks in Europe. Finally it reviews position papers of NGO’s, industrial associations and political parties, which are already participating in the emerging political debate on nanotechnology, as well as debates initiated by governments, the European Commission and parliaments, and gives access to media coverage of nanotechnology. Since this report was first published it has been updated twice: the first update was published in October 2005, and an article on nanoethics in 2025 by Louis Laurent was added in July 2006.



Report Title: A European Plan for Sustainable Chemistry
Report ID: 244
Date: 7/1/2004
Author: Cefic and EuropaBio
Report Type: Concept Paper
URL: [tp_sust_chem.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Directorate-General for Research
Summary: The EU is world-leading in chemicals production. Its chemical industry is more than just a supplier of chemicals; it is a continuous source of product and process innovations, and an engine for innovation for downstream sectors. Nonetheless, the competitiveness of the sector in Europe is at risk, mainly due to relatively high cost of production, low market growth, and delocalization of customer industries. The sector’s role as an enabler of innovation to the downstream industry is therefore also in danger. What will be the key difference for the EU is the role of innovation, which in turn is heavily reliant on Research and Development. However, EU chemical R&D expenditures are decreasing and are structurally lower than in competing regions. In light of this need to boost chemical research and innovation in Europe, it is recommended to establish a European Technology Platform on Sustainable Chemistry to galvanize and focus collaborative research, development and innovation activities relating to the European chemicals industry. Such a platform should provide a management process to integrate multiple stakeholder perspectives into a shared vision of a sustainable future EU chemical industry, a European strategy for research and innovation in key chemical technology areas, and an action plan to implement this strategy. The later component should include mobilization of resources for collaborative R&D, alignment of relevant EU policies and initiatives, and recommendations on EU innovation framework improvements.
Archived Copy: tp_sust_chem_244_8199.pdf



Report Title: Converging Technologies - Shaping the Future of European Societies
Report ID: 243
Date: 8/1/2004
Author: Alfred Normann
Report Type: Concept Paper
URL: [final_report_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Directorate-General for Research
Summary: Based on the findings of the July 2004 “Foresighting the New Technology Wave,” the European Commission and Member States are called upon to recognize the novel potential of Converging Technologies (CTs) to advance the Lisbon Agenda. It was recommended that preparatory action be taken to implement CT as a thematic research priority, to develop Converging Technologies for the European Knowledge Society (CTEKS) as a specifically European approach to CTs, and to establish a CTEKS research community. In this report, twenty-five members from a variety of countries and disciplinary backgrounds were charged with the task of exploring in breadth the potential and the risks of CT by delineating areas of interest and fields of application for CTs, and relating these CTs to the European environment and policy goals. After formally meeting four times, the group prepared a report on the basis of the discussions, individual written contributions by group members, a scenario exercise, and reports by four subgroups. The result of these efforts was the proposal for a European approach to converging technologies known as CTEKS: Converging Technologies for the European Knowledge Society.
Archived Copy: final_report_en_243_5158.pdf



Report Title: Nanotechnology in the EU?: Bioanalytical and Biodiagnostic Techniques
Report ID: 242
Date: 9/1/2004
Author: Christof Ruch
Report Type: Fact Finding Report
Publication: Nanoforum.org
URL: [nanoforumnanobioreport.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: nanoforum.org
Summary: The aim of this report is to identify European organizations from both the private and public sectors that are using or developing analytical or diagnostic techniques, in biotechnology, medicine and related fields that are based on nanotechnology advances. Research exploiting and developing these technologies is central to the pharmaceutical and healthcare industries, which have combined global market values of several hundred billion euros each year. R&D in nanoanalytical and diagnostic techniques is however fragmented across Europe and if these activities were documented in a central resource, to which all interested parties could have ready access, then this would strengthen the European market with respect to that of other global regions.
Archived Copy: nanoforumnanobioreport_242_4345.pdf



Report Title: Technology Platforms: From Definition to Implementation of a Common Research Agenda
Report ID: 241
Date: 9/21/2004
Author: Commission Inter-Service Group on Technology Platforms
Report Type: Fact Finding Report
URL: [tp_report_defweb_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Directorate-General for Research
Summary: According to the latest available figures, overall R&D investment in the European Union is approaching 2% of GDP, but at an average annual growth rate of 4% which is insufficient to meet the 3% target by 2010. There is a pressing need therefore to define research and technological development (RTD) priorities, timeframes and budgets on a number of strategically important issues with high societal relevance. Europe’s future growth, competitiveness and sustainable development objectives is dependent upon major research and technological advances in the medium to long-term. This is the key objective of “Technology Platforms” which are uniting stakeholders around a common vision and approach for the development of the technologies concerned, with emphasis on the definition of a Strategic Research Agenda and the mobilization of the critical mass of research and innovation effort. The implementation of these research agendas will, in many cases, be carried out with the support of existing Community research and technological development instruments. However, in a limited number of cases requiring the efficient and effective implementation of very large-scale applied and industrial research - in addition to the setting up of public-private partnerships for this purpose - the inclusion of Joint Technology Initiatives as a mechanism within FP VII is aimed at providing a response at Community level to addressing these challenges. The next steps will be to further develop and support Technology Platforms in the period leading up to the launch of FP VII, and in close collaboration with EU Member State authorities, further refine the methodology to identify and decide upon those technological fields being explored within these platforms which most merit to be supported with substantial Community funding under FP VII through use of the new mechanism of Joint Technology Initiatives.
Archived Copy: tp_report_defweb_en_241_9849.pdf



Report Title: Nanotechnology Roadmap for Nanoelectronics 2001
Report ID: 239
Date: 10/1/2000
Author: R. Compañó (editor)
Report Type: Concept Paper
URL: [nidqf.htm]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission IST program Future and Emerging Technologies
Summary: Making predictions in an emergent field is difficult. By its nature, no forecast can reflect all the views of all the experts in the field; it can try, at best, to reflect a consensus of most of their views. In order to arrive at a “common view” on nanotechnology, the editor has relied on information from many sources, in particular, the discussions of the six monthly MELARI/NID workshops whose participants are drawn from more than sixty distinct Europe research groups working in different areas of nanoelectronics. The first technology roadmap for nanoelectronics was published by L. Molenkamp, D. Paul and R. Compañó in April 1999 and this new edition follows the same format, with several new chapters to reflect new advances. Many top nanotechnology experts contributed to this document, but predictions can never be guaranteed. This roadmap should be understood as a document that monitors progress and discusses tendencies in the hope that it may help the reader to appreciate strengths, weaknesses, threats and opportunities of different technologies. Although breakthroughs are not usually predicted, they very often occur as unexpected results when working towards predicted targets.
Archived Copy: fetnidrm_239_7700.pdf



Report Title: Vision Paper and Basis for a Strategic Research Agenda for Nanomedicine
Report ID: 238
Date: 9/6/2005
Author: various
Report Type: Concept Paper
URL: [nanomedicine_visionpaper.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Technology Platfrom on Nanomedicine - Nanotechnology for Health
Summary: This European Technology Platform addresses ambitious, responsible research, development and innovation in Nanotechnology for Health to strengthen the competitive scientific and industrial position of Europe in the area of NanoMedicine and improve the quality of life
and health care of its citizens.
Archived Copy: nanomedicine_visionpaper_238_4963.pdf



Report Title: Funding and Support for International Nanotechnology Collaborations
Report ID: 236
Date: 12/1/2005
Author: Manuela Denis, Michael Gleiche, Tiju Joseph, Holger Hoffschulz, Witold Lojkowski, Ineke Malsch, Irena Mogilnicka, Mark Morrison, Mireille Oud
Report Type: General Report
Publication: Nanoforum
URL: [internationalnanotechnology.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: Nanoforum has investigated multilateral and bilateral funding opportunities for nanotechnology open to European researchers with partners in other parts of the world. Additionally, they have also identified web portals and organizations which can help EU researchers find partners in North and South America, Eastern Europe, Russia and Newly Independent States, Asia-Pacific and Africa. The present report identifies funding opportunities at the global level and in the following world regions: North America; Latin America; Asia-Pacific; Eastern Europe, Russia and Newly Independent States; and Africa.
Archived Copy: internationalnanotechnology_236_5357.pdf



Report Title: Some Figures about Nanotechnology R&D in Europe and Beyond
Report ID: 235
Date: 12/8/2005
Author: Renzo Tomellini
Report Type: General Report
URL: [nano_funding_data_08122005.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission, Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies Unit
Summary: With its two Communications on nanotechnology the European Commission has presented the vision and a set of actions for the useful, safe, responsible and profitable development and application of nanosciences and nanotechnologies in Europe. In its day-to-day work, the Nanosciences and Nanotechnology unit of the Directorate-General has collected on the many indicators associated with nanotechnology research, technological development and their applications. This report contains some of these data, though the present figures are based on accessible information; they should not be deemed to be complete and in no way do they engage the European Commission.
Archived Copy: nano_funding_data_08122005_235_8381.pdf



Report Title: Opinions on the Ethical, Legal and Social Aspects of Nanotechnology: Results from a Consultation With Representatives from Research, Business and Civil Society
Report ID: 233
Date: 5/1/2006
Author: Volker Türk, Claudia Kaiser, Dr. Christa Liedtke, Hugh Knowles, Vicky Murray, Stephan Schaller, Dr. Holger Wallbaum, and Dr. Hans Kastenholz, Andreas R. Köhler
Report Type: General Report
Publication: nanologue.net
URL: [NanologueWP34FinalPublic.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Nanologue
Summary: This paper presents the results from the Nanologue projects second phase: the engagement and dialogue on the societal benefits and risks of nanotechnology (NT) applications with representatives from research and civil society. Building upon the first project findings, it aims at establishing a deeper understanding on the ethical, legal and social (ELS) benefits and risks of NT-applications in the view of civil society and researchers. Using interviews and stakeholder workshops the main objectives were to engage with representatives from research and development of NT, interview the societal groups engaged in this project phase in order to further develop and substantiate the benefits and potential impacts of NT (identified in the first project phase), to facilitate the process of prioritizing the benefits and potential impacts identified, and to contribute to the development of the subsequent project work such scenarios exploring how business, civil society and public institutions can engage effectively in a dialogue on the ethical, social and legal aspects of NT.
Archived Copy: NanologueWP34FinalPublic_233_8071.pdf



Report Title: Europeans and Biotechnology in 2005: Patterns and Trends
Report ID: 232
Date: 7/1/2006
Author: George Gaskell, Sally Stares, Agnes Allansdottir, Nick Allum, Cristina Corchero, Claude Fischler, Jürgen Hampel, Jonathan Jackson, Nicole Kronberger, Niels Mejlgaard, Gemma Revuelta, Camilla Schreiner, Helge Torgersen and Wolfgang Wagner.
Report Type: Survey
Publication: Eurobarometer
URL: [ebs_244b_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Directorate-General for Research
Summary: The results of the 2005 survey show European citizens to be increasingly optimistic about biotechnology, as well as being more informed and more trusting of the biotechnology system. While the majority are willing to delegate responsibility on new technologies to experts, a substantial minority would like to see greater weight given to moral and ethical considerations in decision taking about science and technology and to the voices of the public. There is widespread support for medical and industrial biotechnologies, but general opposition to agricultural biotechnologies in all but a few countries. Although there is resistance to genetically modified food, it is an exception rather than the rule and is not indicative of a wider disenchantment with science and technology in general. Europeans support the development of nanotechnology, pharmacogenetics and gene therapy because they are perceived as useful to society and morally acceptable. It should be noted that neither nanotechnology nor pharmcogenetics are perceived to be risky.
Archived Copy: ebs_244b_en_232_8180.pdf



Report Title: Linking Science to Technology - Bibliographic References in Patents; Volume 9; Detailed analysis of the science-technology in the field of Nanotechnology
Report ID: 228
Date: 1/1/2003
Author: A. Verbeek, J. Callaert (Researchers), Prof. Dr. Ir. K. Debackere, Dr. M. Luwel, Prof. Dr. R. Veugelers (Promotors)
Report Type: Fact Finding Report
URL: [ind_report_kul9.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Research Directorate-General, Directorate Knowledge-based economy and society
Summary: In this report the science and technology interaction in the field of nanotechnology is being presented and analyzed. The intense interest in using nanostructures stems from the idea that they may boast superior electrical, chemical, mechanical or optical properties - at least in theory. No definition is satisfactory as it embraces so many fields – from electronics and physics, through biology and chemistry and on to mechanical engineering. The diversity of nanotechnology is reflected in the classification of related technological inventions in the International Patent Classification (IPC), which accordingly, cuts across numerous classes. Therefore, in order to select the Nano-related patents a combination with a keyword-based patent search strategy has been applied (based on delineation made by recent research at the Fraunhofer Institute). This resulted in the retrieval of 1115 EPO (European Patent Office) and 514 USPTO (United States Patent and Trademark Office) nano-related patents (the keyword searches were only performed in the title of the US-patents). The report reviews these data and comes to several conclusions about the nature and scope of patent protections as they pertain nanotechonology.
Archived Copy: ind_report_kul9_228_2081.pdf



Report Title: Nanotechnology Advances in Europe
Report ID: 227
Date: 4/1/2002
Author: Dr. S. Dunn and Prof. R.W. Whatmore
Report Type: Working Document
URL: [stoa108_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Directorate-General for Research
Summary: The effort in research and development of nanotechnology in Europe is the largest, in terms of publications, in the world and varies from country to country, due mainly to the historical manufacturing base. This report raises a number of concerns about the future of this science, primarily focusing on the lack of availability of suitable staff and students, a lack of accessible information about networking possibilities (for those new to the field), and concerns over the public perception of nanotechnology. Many of these issues share a common focal point in the absence of adequate funding for networking opportunities and initiatives like undergraduate and postgraduate training packages directed at nanotechnology. Furthermore, the movement to larger research grants also concerns many as a potential change from emphasis on fundamental research to more short term goals, with secondary consequences including danger of politicization, more difficulties in getting funding, and further difficulties in acquiring staff.
Archived Copy: stoa108_en_227_6005.pdf



Report Title: Action Plan for European Standardisation
Report ID: 225
Date: 6/1/2008
Author: Enterprise and Industry Directorate-General; Directorate I – New Approach Industries Standardisation
Report Type: Concept Paper
URL: [standardisation_action_plan.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: In its communication on “the role of European standardisation in the framework of European policies and legislation” of 18 October 2004, the Commission highlighted its standardisation policy and formulated recommendations aiming to improve the European standardisation system. It was subsequently invited by the Council to elaborate - in cooperation with Member States, parties concerned, and particularly the European standardisation organisations (ESOs) - an action plan aimed at further implementing the recommendations of the Commission’s communication. The result is this document which has been developed by the Commission in conjunction with European Free Trade Association (EFTA), the ESOs and National Standards Bodies (NSBs), the Member States and stakeholders. This action plan reflects in operational terms the Commission’s communication and the Council conclusions. It outlines the most important actions to be performed and identifies the key players for every action, though it is not exhaustive in scope. During its implementation, it is probable that more Commission services than those listed as key players in the document will be involved. The action plan also defines a timeframe for carrying out such actions.
Archived Copy: standardisation_action_plan_225_8204.pdf



Report Title: Developments in Nanotechnology Regulations and Standards
Report ID: 222
Date: 9/29/2009
Author: ObservatoryNano
Report Type: Fact Finding Report
URL: [Default.htm]
Country: European Union
Summary: Over the past ten years, anticipation has been rife around the potential benefits and potential risks of nanotechnologies have become increasingly high on the agenda. With expected risks becoming ever more specific and the nano-enabled products on the market increasing at a rapid pace, the need to embrace the complexities of regulation nanotechnologies as they emerge has become apparent. With little alignment in regulatory stances from the many potential stakeholders, there is a general feeling that a regulatory framework needs to be in place both to enable and constrain developments in nanotechnology to create societal beneficial technologies. The aim of the report is to give an overview of the existing situation on nanotechnology regulation, the initiatives of the stakeholders in the field of regulation and standards of nanotechnology at national and international level, and to identify several factors which are making the implementation of effective regulatory schemes complex. As part of the ObservatoryNANO project, it is an evolving document, taking into consideration the changes in the regulation landscape.
Archived Copy: ObservatoryNANO_Report_WP6_RegulationStandards_222_6898.pdf



Report Title: Developments in Nanotechnologies Regulations and Standards
Report ID: 221
Date: 5/29/2009
Author: ObservatoryNano
Report Type: Fact Finding Report
URL: [Default.htm]
Country: European Union
Summary: Over the past ten years, anticipation has been rife around the potential benefits and potential risks of nanotechnologies have become increasingly high on the agenda. With expected risks becoming ever more specific and the nano-enabled products on the market increasing at a rapid pace, the need to embrace the complexities of regulation nanotechnologies as they emerge has become apparent. With little alignment in regulatory stances from the many potential stakeholders, there is a general feeling that a regulatory framework needs to be in place both to enable and constrain developments in nanotechnology to create societal beneficial technologies. The aim of the report is to give an overview of the existing situation on nanotechnology regulation, the initiatives of the stakeholders in the field of regulation and standards of nanotechnology at national and international level, and to identify several factors which are making the implementation of effective regulatory schemes complex. As part of the ObservatoryNANO project, it is an evolving document, taking into consideration the changes in the regulation landscape.



Report Title: The Economic Development of Nanotechnology- an Indicators Based Analysis
Report ID: 220
Date: 11/28/2006
Author: Angela Hullmann
Report Type: Research Report
Publication: European Commission
URL: [nanoarticle_hullmann_nov2006.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: As stated in the European Commission's Communication: "Nanosciences and nanotechnologies: An action plan for Europe 2005-2009" (COM(2005)243), the European Commission aims at providing favorable conditions for industrial innovation in nanotechnology to ensure that research and technological development is translated into affordable and safe wealth-generating products and processes. In order to do so, it is important to get a comprehensive picture of the state of the art of markets, companies, funding and S&T performance and prospective for development. The present analyses are based on indicators of the economic development of nanotechnology that can be publicly accessed. A focus has been put on the analysis of Europe compared to its main competitors. The data presented should not be deemed to be complete and in no way do they engage the European Commission.
Archived Copy: The economic development of nanotechnology - an indicators based analysis_220_7306.pdf



Report Title: Third International Dialogue on Responsible Research and Development of Nanotechnology
Report ID: 219
Date: 3/12/2008
Author: Renzo Tomellini and Julien Giordani
Report Type: Meeting Notes
Publication: European Commission
URL: [report_3006.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: The 3rd International Dialogue on Responsible Nanotechnology took place in Brussels
(Belgium, EU) on 11-12 March 2008. This Dialogue followed the previous two successful meetings in Alexandria (Virginia, USA) in 2004, and Tokyo (Japan) in 2006. This Dialogue represents a space for facilitating international sharing, bringing together stakeholders from public administrations who meet in their personal capacity to review progress, benchmark initiatives, identify differences and specificities, and explore synergies, with the ultimate aim of contributing to a responsible and sustainable development of nanotechnology. The aim of the Dialogue is to be inclusive with regard to all countries interested in a responsible and sustainable development of nanotechnology so as to contribute to a development of nanotechnology that corresponds to the need of society as a whole, without disequilibria or “divides” within or between countries and regions. Several specific issues were addressed, including: nanotechnology governance, bridging the knowledge gap, creating standards and definitions of intellectual protection, societal engagement.
Archived Copy: Third International Dialogue on Responsible Research and Development of Nanotechnology_219_3384.pdf



Report Title: Nanomedicine: Nanotechnology for Health
Report ID: 218
Date: 11/1/2006
Author: European Technology Platform on NanoMedicine
Report Type: Research Agenda
URL: [nanomedicine_bat_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Technology Platform on NanoMedicine
Summary: In order to avoid fragmentation and a lack of coordination, industry and academia – together with the European Commission – have identified the need for a European initiative to intermesh the several strands of nanomedicine into a firm strategy for advancement. The resulting “European Technology Platform on NanoMedicine” is an industry-led consortium, bringing together the key European stakeholders in the sector. In September 2005 it delivered a common vision of this technologically and structurally multi-faceted area 1, and defines the most important objectives in this Strategic Research Agenda (SRA). The SRA addresses the Member States of the European Union, its Candidate Countries and Associated States to the EU Framework Programs for research and tech no logical development, as well as the European Commission itself. Its main aim is to put forward a sound basis for decision making processes for policy makers and funding agencies, providing an overview of needs and challenges, existing technologies and future opportunities in nanomedicine. The SRA also takes into consideration education and training, ethical requirements, benefit/risk assessment, public acceptance, regulatory framework and intellectual property issues, thus representing a possible reference document for regulatory bodies. The scientific and technical approach is horizontal and exploits the benefits of interdisciplinarity and convergence of relevant technologies via breakthrough developments in the areas of diagnosis, targeted delivery systems, and regenerative medicine.
Archived Copy: nanotechnology for health_218_3502.pdf



Report Title: Third International Dialogue on Responsible Research and Development of Nanotechnology
Report ID: 217
Date: 3/12/2008
Author: Renzo Tomellini and Julien Giordani
Report Type: Meeting Notes
Publication: European Commission
URL: [report_3006.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: The 3rd International Dialogue on Responsible Nanotechnology took place in Brussels
(Belgium, EU) on 11-12 March 2008. This Dialogue followed the previous two successful meetings in Alexandria (Virginia, USA) in 2004, and Tokyo (Japan) in 2006. This Dialogue represents a space for facilitating international sharing, bringing together stakeholders from public administrations who meet in their personal capacity to review progress, benchmark initiatives, identify differences and specificities, and explore synergies, with the ultimate aim of contributing to a responsible and sustainable development of nanotechnology. The aim of the Dialogue is to be inclusive with regard to all countries interested in a responsible and sustainable development of nanotechnology so as to contribute to a development of nanotechnology that corresponds to the need of society as a whole, without disequilibria or “divides” within or between countries and regions. Several specific issues were addressed, including: nanotechnology governance, bridging the knowledge gap, creating standards and definitions of intellectual protection, societal engagement.
Archived Copy: nanotechnology - health and environmental risks of nanoparticles_217_3284.pdf



Report Title: Literature Review – Workplace exposure to nanoparticles
Report ID: 211
Date: 6/3/2009
Author: European Agency for Safety and Health at Work
Report Type: Review of Literature
URL: [workplace_exposure_to_nanoparticles]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Agency for Safety and Health at Work
Summary: Of the European Agency for Safety and Health at Work’s list of the top ten emerging risks (physical, biological, psychosocial, and chemical) in the workplace, nanoparticles and ultrafine particles are viewed as posing the strongest risk. This document reviews literature published up to November 2008 on the potential health effects from workplace exposure to engineered nanomaterials. Currently, standardized in vivo studies are seen as the best way to detect nanomaterial toxicity, but further research and standardization are needed. Published handling guidelines for nanomaterials emphasize minimizing exposure according to the precautionary principle, using techniques such as wearing filtering masks to protect against airborne particles. Occupational protection from nanomaterials is the responsibility of several EU directives, including REACH. These directives are being examined to ensure that they appropriately regulate nanomaterials in a safe manner. Future priorities for occupational safety include measurements of nanomaterial exposure, measurements of protective measure efficacy, in vivo studies, validation of in vitro methods and physico-chemical properties for determining health effects, and adequate training of workers.
Archived Copy: EU OSHA workplace_exposure_to_nanoparticles_211_1912.pdf



Report Title: Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR) Modified Opinion (after Public Consultation) on the Appropriateness of Existing Methodologies to Assess the Potential Risks Associated With Engineered and Adventitious Products of Nanotechnologies
Report ID: 205
Date: 3/10/2006
Author: Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR)
Report Type: Scientific Opinion Report
URL: [scenihr_o_003b.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENHIR)
Summary: Following from the conclusions of the Council of the European Union on the European strategy for nanotechnologies which highlighted the importance of the "assessment of potential risks throughout the life cycle of nanotechnology based products" and the nanotechnologies action plan, the European Commission asked the independent experts of the Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks for a scientific opinion on the appropriateness of existing methodologies to assess the potential risks of nanotechnologies. The committee issued a report that complements current scientific background and contains an assessment of the gaps in knowledge required to address the risks of nanotechnologies and an examination of regulatory aspects related to risk assessment. In particular, the committee concludes that current risk assessment methodologies require some modification in order to deal with the hazards associated with nanotechnology, and in particular that existing toxicological and ecotoxicological methods may not be sufficient to address all of the issues arising with nanoparticles. It furthermore points to major gaps in the knowledge necessary for viable risk assessment.

Archived Copy: scenihr_o_003b_205_5616.pdf



Report Title: Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies: an Action Plan for Europe 2005-2009
Report ID: 202
Date: 1/1/2005
Author: European Commission
Report Type: Guidance Document
URL: [nano_action_plan_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: On 12 May 2004 the European Commission adopted the Communication Towards a European Strategy for Nanotechnology in which a safe, integrated and responsible strategy was proposed. Its aim was to reinforce the European Union's leading position in nanotechnology research and development and innovation while addressing any environmental, health, safety and societal concerns upfront. In this context, several issues were highlighted, ranging from the development of world-class competitive R&D infrastructure to cooperating at with initiatives at the international level. In its conclusions of 24 September 2004, the Competitiveness Council welcomed the proposed integrated and responsible approach and the Commission's intention to draw up an Action Plan for nanotechnology. The European Economic and Social Committee subsequently adopted an opinion on the 10 November 2004 that supported the Commission's proposed approach. All stakeholders were invited to provide their opinion on the Commission's proposal via an extensive open consultation that closed on the 15 October 2004. Over 750 responses were received supporting the elements of the Commission's proposal. The Commission harnessed these results to form this Action Plan, which defines a series of articulated and interconnected actions for the immediate implementation of a safe, integrated and responsible strategy for N&N based on the priority areas identified in the above-mentioned Communication. Regarding nanobiotechnology, this Action Plan complements the Commission's Strategy for Europe on Life Sciences and Biotechnology.
Archived Copy: nano_action_plan_en_202_1165.pdf



Report Title: Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies: An Action Plan for Europe 2005-2009
Report ID: 195
Date: 6/7/2005
Author: European Commission
Report Type: Government Communication
URL: [nano_action_plan_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: Advances in nanotechnology necessitate a comprehensive strategy for managing these new developments to ensure that environmental, health, safety, and societal concerns are addressed. In May 2004, the European Commission adopted the Communication Towards a European Strategy for Nanotechnology, which proposed the safe, integrated, and responsible strategy. This communication continues that strategy with an 16-page action plan, which defines specific actions to be undertaken by both the Commission and the EU member states for the implementation of the strategy. The Commission will support nanotechnology through a proposed doubling of the budget for the EUs research, technological development, and demonstration program. Selected areas for development include the establishment of European Poles of Excellence; international cooperation; public health, safety, and environmental protection; addressing ethical concerns; interdisciplinary training; consumer protection; and ensuring that the overarching strategy is coherent and visible at the European level.
Archived Copy: nano_action_plan_en_195_8090.pdf



Report Title: Compromise and Consolidated Amendments 1-35
Report ID: 192
Date: 3/30/2009
Author: Carl Schlyter
Report Type: Legislation
URL: [778360en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety
Summary: The European Parliaments Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety has voted to amend and adopt its report, Report on the regulatory aspects of nanomaterials. This report was previously published in draft form in January 2009. This document contains both the original text and the text as adopted. The newly amended report calls for increased research into environmental, health, and safety aspects of nanomaterials throughout their life cycle, the introduction of a comprehensive definition of nanotechnology, and the adoption of a harmonized definition of nanomaterials. It emphasizes that the EUs concept of a safe, responsible, and integrated approach to nanotechnology is jeopardized by the lack of safety information for nanomaterial-containing products already on the market. The amended report strongly supports the no data, no market principle and calls for legislation to be reviewed within two years to implement this approach.
Archived Copy: 778360en_192_2513.pdf



Report Title: Preliminary Opinion on Safety of Nanomaterials in Cosmetic Products
Report ID: 191
Date: 6/19/2007
Author: Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (SCCP)
Report Type: Committee Report
URL: [sccp_o_099.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (SCCP)
Summary: Following a report by the UK Royal Society and Royal Academy of Engineering which suggested treating nanomaterials as new chemicals and questioned the suitability of mass-based standards for assessing toxicological risks, the European Communitys Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (SCCP) was requested to examine the safety of nanomaterials in cosmetic products. These materials are either labile (disintegrating upon skin contact into their molecular components) or insoluble (such as titanium dioxide in sunscreen). Insoluble nanoparticles are the primary cause of concern for human safety. This committee report examines possible health concerns and exposure routes of these nanoparticles. The existing in vitro technique for estimating skin absorption may not be applicable to nanoscale materials, and the committee suggests that new methodologies are needed. One major problem is the need for in vivo testing to determine nanoparticle concentrations in organs, because of the ban upon animal testing for cosmetic products.
Archived Copy: SCCP (2007), Preliminary opinion on safety of nano_191_8431.pdf



Report Title: Towards a European Strategy for Nanotechnology
Report ID: 189
Date: 5/12/2004
Author: European Commission
Report Type: Government Communication
URL: [nano_com_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: This communication from the Commission of the European Communities emphasizes the need for the European Union to translate its investment in nanotechnology research into commercially viable products. It calls for action in a variety of areas, including an increase in research and development expenditures, the development of infrastructure, the promotion of a stronger entrepreneurial market, and the integration of health risk assessment into every stage of the nanomaterial life cycle. Poles of excellence infrastructure capable of supporting world-class research and development for industry and research organizations are the key to improving the EUs excellence in nanotechnology. This document also describes and analyzes the current state of nanotechnology development and research. One significant finding is that all EU countries except Ireland have lower per capita nanotechnology investment than the United States and Japan.
Archived Copy: Michael Vincent EC (2004), Communication towards a European strategy_189_4730.pdf



Report Title: Commission Starts Public Dialogue on Nanotechnologies Tapping Economic and Environmental Potential Through Safe Products
Report ID: 179
Date: 6/17/2008
Report Type: Press Release
URL: [pressReleasesAction.do]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: This press release announces that the European Commission considers a regulatory framework for the safe development of nanotechnology to be vital and will be conducting an open dialogue with citizens and stakeholders. The Commission intends to apply the precautionary principle to ensure public safety while ensuring that society benefits from nanotechnology. It is also announced that the Commission is supporting research and development through the Joint Research Centre and coordinated activities with the OECD and the ISO.
Archived Copy: Michael Vincent EC (2007), Commission starts public dialogue_179_2447.pdf



Report Title: Request for a Scientific Opinion on the Appropriateness of the Risk Assessment Methodology in Accordance With the Technical Guidance Documents for New and Existing Substances for Assessing the Risks of Nanomaterials
Report ID: 175
Date: 1/1/2006
Author: SCENHIR
Report Type: Request for Opinion
Publication: Request for a Scientific Opinion on the Appropriateness of the Risk Assessment Methodology in Accordance With the Technical Guidance Documents for New and Existing Substances for Assessing the Risks of Nanomaterials
Country: European Union
Organization: Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENHIR)
Summary: The European Commission requested that the Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR) form an opinion on the appropriateness of existing risk assessment methodologies for determining nanomaterial safety to humans and the environment. That opinion concluded the methodologies required adjustment in order to adequately address the new concerns of nanoparticles. This document is another request from the Commission to again assess the appropriateness of existing risk assessment methodologies as described in the Technical Guidance Documents. Specifically, SCENIHR is asked to perform this assessment as well as provide concrete suggestions for improvement of the methodology. Additionally, SCENIHR is requested to provide practical examples of how risk assessment of nanomaterials can be performed. The deadline for this opinion is December 2006.
Archived Copy: Michael Vincent (SCENIHR) 2006, Request for a scientific opinion in accordance with the TGD_175_4714.pdf



Report Title: Request for a Scientific Opinion: on the Appropriateness of Existing Methodologies to Assess the Potential Risks Associated With Engineered and Adventitious Products of Nanotechnologies
Report ID: 174
Date: 1/1/2004
Report Type: Request for Opinion
Publication: SCENHIR
Country: European Union
Organization: Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENHIR)
Summary: The market for nanotechnologies is estimated at $1 trillion by 2015 according to the National Science Foundation. The European Community wishes to ensure that the EU participates in this enormous market. However, nanoparticles raise significant health and environmental concerns due to their miniature size. Existing toxicological and exposure data are not applicable to nano-forms of existing chemical substances. This document is a request to the Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR) for an assessment of methodologies and gaps in current knowledge which endanger the safe development of nanotechnology. Three problems were posed to the Committee: finding the efficacy of existing risk assessment methodologies, determining if any adaptations of or additions to existing methodologies are required for the safe development of nanotechnology, and identifying current knowledge gaps which undermine effective risk assessment.
Archived Copy: Michael Vincent (SCENIHR) 2004, Request for a scientific opinion on adventitious_174_7951.pdf



Report Title: The SCCP'S Notes of Guidance for the Testing of Cosmetic Ingredients and Their Safety Evaluation, 6th Revision
Report ID: 164
Date: 12/19/2006
Author: European Union, Scientific Committee on Consumer Products
Report Type: Guidance Document
URL: [sccp_o_03j.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (SCCP)
Summary: The document contains relevant information on the different aspects of testing and safety evaluation of cosmetic ingredients. It is designed to provide guidance to public authorities and cosmetic industry, in order to improve harmonized compliance with Directive 76/768/EEC 1 and in particular by the Sixth (Dir. 93/35/EEC) and Seventh (Dir. 2003/15/EC3) Amendments to this Directive. The "Notes of Guidance" are regularly revised and updated in order to incorporate the progress of scientific knowledge in general, and the experience gained in particular, in the field of testing and safety evaluation of cosmetic ingredients. Since the last revision, several new opinions of importance to the content of this guidance document have been adopted and they form the basis of this new revision. The Notes of Guidance should not be seen as a checklist, but have been compiled to provide assistance in the complex process of the testing and safety evaluation of cosmetic ingredients. As was also the case in the previous revision, individual SCCP opinions are not provided in detail, but are briefly summarized and clearly referred to. The revisions contained in this document focus on cosmetic products, with particular emphasis placed on testing guidelines and safety assessments.

Archived Copy: sccp_o_03j_164_5464.pdf



Report Title: Eu Competition Brussels Client Alert: France Might Take the Lead on Nanotechnology Regulation
Report ID: 163
Date: 3/5/2009
Author: Mayer, Brown & Platt
Report Type: Press Release
URL: [article.asp]
Country: European Union
Organization: Mayer Brown LLP
Summary: This news release from the law firm of Mayer Brown alerts to proposed legislation in France which would regulate the manufacture, import, and marketing of nanoparticle substances. Such legislation would be the first of its kind in the EU. The first section of the Grenelle project, an environmental reform project launched in 2007, declares that within two years of its passage, nanoparticle substances will be subject to mandatory reporting. The second proposed Grenelle section requires manufacturers, importers, and marketers of nanoparticle substances to make safety information publicly available and provide all known hazard and exposure data to the authorities upon request. This document also describes EU-level calls for protective legislation, including reviews of all EU legislation by the end of 2009 according to the no data, no market principle. Both EU-level and French legislative efforts are guided by the EU's precautionary principle for potential adverse effects to safety. However, it is unknown whether France's proposed legislation will be successful if it runs afoul of the EU's common market law, which prevents EU member legislation from inhibiting the functioning of the EU common market.
Archived Copy: article_163_6135.pdf



Report Title: Novel foods, MEPs set new rules
Report ID: 154
Date: 3/25/2009
Author: Constanze Beckerhoff, Richard Freedman
Report Type: Press Release
URL: [20090324IPR52497_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Summary: In a legislative report dealing with an update of the EU rules on novel foods, the European Parliament called on the Commission of the European Communities to overhaul existing regulations of novel foods. The Commission's proposal to update the regulation on novel foods aims at simplifying and centralizing the procedure of authorization of these products, ensuring food safety and human health. Only novel food which is included on the community list (after assessment by the European Food Safety Authority) can be placed on the market. The MEPs also want food being produced by nanotechnology processes to undergo a specific risk assessment before being approved for use and be labeled so that all ingredients present in the form of nanomaterials are clearly indicated. The report was adopted with 658 votes in favor, 15 against and 11 abstentions.
Archived Copy: 20090324IPR52497_en_154_1510.pdf



Report Title: COM(2007)872: Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on Novel Foods and Amending Regulation (EC) No XXX/XXXX [common procedure]
Report ID: 153
Date: 1/14/2008
Author: Commission of the European Communities
Report Type: Legislation
URL: [COM872_novel_food_proposal_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Commission of the European Communities
Summary: The European Commission adopted a proposal to revise the Novel Foods Regulation (EC) No 258/97 with a view to improving the access of new and innovative foods to the EU market, while maintaining a high level of consumer protection and ensuring food safety. Under the draft regulation, novel foods would be subject to centralized authorization procedure. The Commission will receive the application for authorization and the European Food Safety Authority will carry out the scientific assessment on the product. The one door - one key approach will be taken for the approval of novel foods, just as it will be for food additives, food enzymes and food flavorings. This means that the applicant may make one application for approval covering all these possible uses of the substance in question. The proposal also sets out data protection rules, which aim to protect newly developed foodstuffs once authorized, and encourage companies to invest in developing new types of foods and food production techniques. Moreover, a notification procedure is introduced for foods which have not been traditionally sold in the EU but which have a safe history of use in third countries.
Archived Copy: COM872_novel_food_proposal_en_153_5869.pdf



Report Title: Draft Commission (EC) No /.. of amending Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) as regards Annexes IV and V
Report ID: 152
Date: 1/1/2008
Author: Stavros Dimas, Gnter Verheugen
Report Type: Draft Report
URL: [regulation_annexes_iv_v_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Commission of the European Communities
Summary: Upon carrying out a reviewing pursuant to Article 138(4) of the Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of 18 December 2006 concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), the Commission of European communities decided that certain amendments should also be made to Annex V of the regulation. Specifically, Annex V of the regulation should be replaced with Annex II to this regulation. This is done in light of several provisions of the Regulation 1907/2006 that establish registration obligations for community manufacturers or importers of substances on their own, in preparations or articles, as well as provisions concerning evaluation of substances and the obligations of downstream users. Article 2(7)(a) of this regulation furthermore provides that substances included in Annex IV are exempted from Titles II, V and VI of the same regulation as sufficient information is known about these substances that they are considered to cause minimum risk because of their intrinsic properties. The review carried out by the Commission has revealed that three substances listed in Annex IV should be removed from that annex, as insufficient information is known about these substances for them to be considered as causing minimum risk because of their intrinsic properties. This is the case with vitamin A, as that substance may present significant risks of reproductive toxicity. Furthermore, three noble gases (helium, neon and xenon) fulfill the criteria for inclusion into Annex IV and should therefore be moved there from Annex V. Moreover, it is appropriate to add certain types of glass and ceramic frits which do not meet the classification criteria set out in Directive 67/548/EEC and which do not have dangerous constituents above the relevant concentration limits.



Archived Copy: regulation_annexes_iv_v_en_152_1283.pdf



Report Title: Mapping Study on Regulation and Governance of Nanotechnologies
Report ID: 142
Date: 1/1/2009
Author: Elvio Mantovani, Andrea Porcari, AIRI/Nanotec IT
Report Type: Project Report
URL: [FramingNano_MappingStudy.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: FramingNano Project
Summary: The FramingNano Project is an EU Support Action (SA) funded by the European Commission. It seeks to frame the responsible development of nanosciences and nanotechnologies. This document is a study on the regulation and governance of nanotechnologies, investigating the current state of nanotechnology policy and regulation. Countries and private organizations have established voluntary reporting programs in the absence of specific nanotechnology regulations. Governments, who have existing regulatory tools such as the EUs REACH and the USs TSCA, should use these tools to manage nanotechnology at present as they are in principle capable of such oversight. The report notes two areas where agreement does not exist. First. whether the burden of proving safety should rest with manufacturers or regulatory authorities. The EU requires that manufacturers prove safety before a chemical can be marketed whereas the United States requires that regulators prove a chemical is harmful before it can be restricted or withdrawn from the market. Second, the issue of labeling nanomaterials in consumer projects is still under vigorous debate as methodology and standardizations are still being developed.
Archived Copy: FramingNano_MappingStudy_142_1267.pdf



Report Title: Texts Adopted: European Parliament Legislative Resolution of 25 March 2009 on the Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on Novel Foods and Amending Regulation (ec) No Xxx/xxxx
Report ID: 141
Date: 3/25/2009
Author: European Union
Report Type: Survey
URL: [getDoc.do]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Parliament
Summary: On March 25, 2009, the European Parliament approved a legislative resolution calling for regulation on novel foods within the EU. This resolution, developed after the report of the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety and the opinions of the Committee on Internal Market and Consumer Protection and the Committee on Agriculture and Rural Development, explicitly expresses a clear priority for a high level of human health protection even if this impairs the functioning of the EUs internal market. Novel foods must be subjected to rigorous scientific examination before they can be approved for consumption. Furthermore, such regulation must apply to all foods on the EU market, including foods imported from third countries. Cloned foods or foods derived from cloned animals or components thereof are also prohibited. Nanomaterials present in food packaging must be on an approved list and the rate of migration into the contained food products must be known and limited. The declarations of this resolution are either already incorporated or are intended to be incorporated into future EU legislation regarding novel foods.
Archived Copy: Michael Vincent European Parliament (2009) Texts adopted - Tuesday 24 March 2009 - Cosmetic products (r _141_7390.pdf



Report Title: European Parliament Legislative Resolution of 24 March 2009 on the Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on Cosmetic Products (recast) (com(2008)0049 C6-0053/2008 2008/0035(cod))
Report ID: 140
Date: 3/24/2009
Author: European Union
Report Type: Legislation
URL: [getDoc.do]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Parliament
Summary: The EUs Council Directive 76/768/EEC, which regulates cosmetic products, has been amended 55 times since its creation in 1976. Developments in nanotechnology necessitate changes to the Directive as well. In order to simplify the European regulatory environment, the entire Directive has been rewritten, streamlined, and purged of legal uncertainties. This document contains the full text of the new legislation, now in the form of a regulation rather than a directive. This regulation requires manufacturers of cosmetic products containing nanomaterials to notify the European Commission six months in advance of commercial availability. Such notification must include the type and quantity of nanomaterials, toxicological profiles, safety data, and predicted exposure conditions. A new labeling requirement mandates that any nanomaterial ingredients be included in the products ingredient list followed by the word nano enclosed in brackets.



Report Title: Opinion of the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs for the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety on Regulatory Aspects of Nanomaterials
Report ID: 139
Date: 3/3/2008
Author: Committee on Employment and Social Affairs
Report Type: Committee Report
URL: [getDoc.do]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Parliament, Committee on Employment and Social Affairs
Summary: This document contains the Committee on Employment and Social Affairs (CESA) recommendations to the Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety's proposed resolution regarding nanomaterial safety. It consists of sixteen points calling for the Committee to acknowledge the significant safety and regulatory challenges of nanomaterials, the need for additional research, the need to take precautionary measures even before risks are fully determined, and other regulatory-related suggestions.



Report Title: Report on the Proposal for a Regulation of the European Parliament and of the Council on Novel Foods and Amending Regulation (EC) No Xxx/xxxx
Report ID: 138
Date: 12/18/2008
Author: Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety
Report Type: Committee Report
URL: [getDoc.do]
Country: European Union
Organization: Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety
Summary: This document reports on an EU proposal to modify the procedures for the authorization of novel foods in the EU market. Regulation (EC) No 258/97 regulates procedures for the approval of novel foods. These foods may be derived from cloned animals or produced using nanotechnology, among other methods. This document contains the text of the proposed amendments, an explanatory statement, and committee opinions on the proposal. The proposed changes are intended to primarily attain a high level of food safety while simplifying and centralizing the procedures. Novel food applications will be submitted to the Commission and pursuant to their compliance with the proposed regulations, and then forwarded to the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) for assessment, including ethical and environmental concerns.



Report Title: Follow-up to the 6th Meeting of the REACH Competent Authorities for the Implementation of Regulation (EC) 1907/2006 (REACH)
Report ID: 137
Date: 12/16/2008
Report Type: Government Report
URL: [nanomaterials.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: The EU's REACH legislation aims to ensure the protection of human health and the environment. It regulates the manufacture, usage, and sale of certain substances in order to further this goal. The development of nanomaterials poses numerous challenges to the applicability of REACH. This document discusses this applicability and the challenges faced in ensuring that new nanoscale materials are adequately covered under EU regulation. For example, one major challenge is the threshold at which substances must be registered. Nanoscale substances are considered phase-in substances under REACH, and must be registered with the EU if manufactured or imported in quantities of one ton per year or greater. This limit formerly was ten kilograms per year. Regulations are also adapting to better account for the different properties of nanoscale versus bulk substances, which can have starkly different toxicological effects. This report discusses these and other current nanomaterial issues.



Report Title: Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council and the European Economic and Social Committee, Regulatory Aspects of Nanomaterials
Report ID: 136
Date: 6/17/2008
Author: European Commission
Report Type: Government Communication
URL: [comm_2008_0366_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Commission of the European Communities
Summary: As part of the European Commission's commitment to nanotechnology safety, the Commission announced a review of pertinent EU legislation. This document is a Communication from the Commission which examines current nanomaterial regulation and identifies present and future regulatory gaps which will be addressed. While current regulations cover nanomaterial safety in principle, the Commission calls for improved implementation which will enhance these precautions further. Knowledge of nanomaterial classification, hazards, exposure, risk assessment, and risk management must be improved. The Communication also explains the Commissions numerous directives and working groups which are currently working to better identify and regulate nanotechnology-related risks. Within three years of the publication of this Communication, the Commission will issue a report on the progress of its efforts.



Report Title: European Commission Adopts Code of Conduct for Responsible Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies Research
Report ID: 135
Date: 2/8/2008
Author: European Commission
Report Type: Press Release
URL: [pressReleasesAction.do]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission
Summary: This press release announces the European Commission's adoption of its "Code of Conduct" for governing nanotechnology research. Following the 2005 "Nanotechnologies Action Plan," the Code provides seven principles for research: (i) meaning, (ii) sustainability, (iii) precaution, (iv) inclusiveness, (v) excellence, (vi) innovation, and (vii) accountability. These principles are implemented in guidelines aiming for good governance of research, due respect of precaution, and dissemination and monitoring of the Code.



Report Title: Guidance on Registration
Report ID: 134
Date: 5/1/2008
Report Type: Guidance Document
URL: [registration_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Chemicals Agency
Summary: The European Union's REACH regulation requires manufacturers and importers of chemical substances to register these substances. This document contains the EUs guidance on the registration process, including registration fees, obligations regarding data sharing, criteria for mandatory registration, which substances are covered under REACH, registration dossier formats, and duties of the European Chemicals Agency in handling registrations.



Report Title: Follow-up to the 2nd Nanotechnology Safety for Success DialogueTop ten actions to take by Easter 2009
Report ID: 132
Date: 12/17/2008
Author: Robert Madelin
Report Type: Workshop Report
URL: [ev_20081002_en.htm]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Health and Consumers Directorate-General
Summary: The 2nd Nanotechnology Safety for Success Dialogue was held in Brussels on October 2-3, 2008 and addressed innovation, safety, and consumer trust as they relate to nanotechnology. This Report, authored by Robert Madelin, the European Commissions Director General for Health and Consumer Protection, identifies ten actions for stakeholders and citizens to accomplish by Spring 2009. Among those actions discussed are: (i) preparing for the next conference, (ii) drafting discussion papers between EU members, (iii) launching sector-by-sector stakeholder dialogues, (iv) establishing a web-based platform for information exchange, (v)contemplating an EU-wide inventory of nanotechnology products, (vi) initiating studies for hypothetical applications, (vii) identifying the fastest ways to generate needed scientific knowledge, (viii) requesting EFSA to update food safety regulations, (ix) planning risk assessment of consumer nanotechnology products, and (x) creating a network of risk assessors for information exchange and collaboration.



Report Title: Scientific Opinion of the Scientific Committee, The Potential Risks Arising from Nanoscience and Nanotechnologies on Food and Feed Safety
Report ID: 119
Date: 2/10/2009
Author: The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)
Report Type: Scientific Opinion Report
URL: [sc_op_ej958_nano_en,0.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)
Summary: The Scientific Committee of the European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) issued a written opinion regarding potential risks in food and feed safety from nanotechnology. Predicted food uses for nanotechnology include production technology, modification of taste/texture/consistency, monitoring food quality, and enhanced nutrient absorption. The Committee focused on engineered nanomaterials and found little concrete information regarding usage levels, detection of nanomaterials in food, and toxicology data. This opinion contains recommendations for methods to detect engineered nanomaterials in food, assess consumer exposure, and to develop toxicology data.



Report Title: COMMISSION REGULATION (EC) No 987/2008 amending Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council on the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) as regards Annexes IV and V
Report ID: 99
Date: 10/8/2008
Author: Stavros Dimas
Report Type: Law
URL: [LexUriServ.do]
Country: European Union
Organization: Council Concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH)
Summary: Following a commission review pursuant to Article 138(4) of the Regulation (EC) No 1907/2006 of 18 December 2006 of the European Parliament and of the Council concerning the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), the commission recommended that several alterations be made to this legislation. This new commission reguation seeks to enact those changes, which entail modifying the respective lists of chemicals that are exempt from the obligation to register in accordance with article 2(7)(a) (Annex IV) and 2(7)(b) (Annex V) of this legislation. For instance, Vitamin A should be removed from Annex IV since it may present significant risks of reproductive toxicity. In addition, several chemicals have been added to Annex IV on the grounds that there is sufficient information known about these substances that they are considered to cause minimum risk because of their intrinsic properties. It is therefore deemed inappropriate or unnecessary for these substances and their exemption from these titles does not prejudice the objectives of this regulation. Nonetheless, manufacturers and importers of all non-exempt chemicals – such as those involved in electrical equipment, automotive, aerospace, cosmetics, textiles, and paints - must still register them with the central European Chemicals Agency.



Report Title: Scientific Committee on Consumer Productions (SCCP): Request for a scientific opinion: Safety of Nanomaterials in Cosmetic Products
Report ID: 93
Date: 1/1/2004
Report Type: Guidance Document
URL: [sccp_nano_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: European Commission Directorate General Health & Consumer Protection: Scientific Committee on Consumer Products
Summary: Since the publication of a report on nanotechnologies by the Royal Society and the Royal Academy of Engineering determined that nanoparticles should be treated as new chemicals from a risk-point of view because of the issues of exposure and higher resorption of nanomaterials in the skin and of assessing exposure to nanomaterials on a mass basis, several groups within the European Commission have been conducting reviews to determine the suitability of their existing procedures in regulating nanomaterials. Recently, the Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks was asked to deliver an opinion on the capabilities of existing methodologies in assessing the potential risks associated with nanotechnologies which necessitated considering if the Scientific Committee on Cosmetic Products and Non-Food Products' (SCCNFP) notes of guidance for safety evaluation should contain specific procedures for nanomaterials. While no reference is made to the use of nanosized ingredients, the SCCNFP has delivered opinions on some nanosized materials such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide for use in cosmetic ingredients.



Report Title: Draft Report on regulatory aspects of nanomaterials
Report ID: 74
Date: 1/19/2009
Author: Carl Schlyter, Reporter
Report Type: Draft Report
URL: [getDoc.do]
Country: European Union
Organization: Committee on the Environment, Public Health and Food Safety
Summary: This draft report contains several provisions that will help create a regulatory framework that fully addresses potential safety problems relating to nanomaterials. Current legislation is insufficient for such regulation, namely because it is devoid of any nano-specific provisions and is not derived from the appropriate data and methods to assess the risks relating to nanomaterials. This is far from the "safe and integrated approach" to nanotechnologies advocated by the Commission. Therefore, the European Parliament has issued this draft report calling for extensive changes within the current regulatory framework. Proposals include having the Commission review all relevant legislation by the end of 2009 (such review is not only necessary to adequately protect human health and the environment, but also to provide certainty and predictability to economic operators as well as public confidence), ensuring that all consumer products containing nanomaterials should be labeled, and limiting potential patent rights to specific applications or production methods of nanomaterials in order to avoid stifling innovation.



Report Title: Risk assessment of products of nanotechnologies
Report ID: 72
Date: 1/19/2009
Report Type: Committee Report
URL: [risk_assessment_products_nanotechnologies_sce.....]
Country: European Union
Organization: Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENHIR)
Summary: This document is the fourth in a series of written opinions by the independent scientific committee SCENIHR to the European Commission regarding nanomaterials. Previous opinions identified free and low solubility nanoparticles as posing the greatest human and environmental risks. This opinion highlights solubility as the single most important determinant of environmental and human risk, as a result of its impact on concentration levels within cells and water sources. Difficulty in determining the presence and size of nanoparticles creates a lack of high-quality toxicological data set for risk assessment. Interactions between nanoparticles and biological proteins are also a poorly researched contribution to toxicity. The opinion supports case by case assessment of nanomaterials as the best way to ensure human and environmental safety.



Report Title: Accompanying Document to the Communication from the Commission to the European Parliament, the Council, and the European Economic and Social Committee: Regulatory Aspects of Nanomaterials, Summary of legislation in relation to health, safety, and environment aspects of nanomaterials, regulatory research needs and related measures
Report ID: 71
Date: 6/17/2008
Report Type: Committee Report
URL: [com_regulatory_aspect_nanomaterials_2008_en.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Commission of the European Communities
Summary: This working document summarizes existing European Union legislation which is relevant to the regulation of nanomaterials. Legislation such as the chemical regime REACH, while not explicitly aimed at controlling nanomaterials, does control some aspects of production and distribution. Other current laws involving areas such as food safety, waste disposal, and cosmetics also control nanomaterials. An additional need for research in the areas of environment, health, and safety is identified. This document also discusses efforts at standardizing risk assessment methodologies and solving the “knowledge gap” of nanomaterials.



Report Title: The appropriateness of the risk assessment methodology in accordance with the Technical Guidance Documents for new and existing substances for assessing the risks of nanomaterials
Report ID: 70
Date: 6/22/2007
Report Type: Committee Report
URL: [scenihr_o_010.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENHIR)
Summary: The European Union Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly-Identified Health Risks (SCENHIR) investigated the appropriateness of current risk assessment methodologies for their applicability to nanomaterials. This document contains the Committee's findings and recommendations. The lack of published standards for toxicity testing remains a significant problem. The Committee suggested that exposure and dose-rate models require adaptation because of the slowly changing properties of nanoparticles over time as degradation occurs. It also found that traditional measurements of concentration involving mass are not useful due to the small size of nanoparticles. Agglomerations of and impurities within nanoparticles also play a role in determining toxicity. Once inside the human body, the biological role of nanoparticles remains unknown. It is theorized that nanoparticles may be able to be readily transported throughout cells in the body. The Committee suggests in vitro tests for determining such conditions. It discusses inhalation risks and stresses that caution is needed when developing nanoparticles. This document describes in detail the requirements of a new methodology for performing such human risk tests on nanomaterial products.



Report Title: Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENHIR), modified Opinion (after public consultation) on the appropriateness of existing methodologies to assess the potential risk associated with engineered and adventitious products of nanotechnologies
Report ID: 69
Date: 3/10/2006
Report Type: Committee Report
URL: [scenihr_o_003b.pdf]
Country: European Union
Organization: Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENHIR)
Summary: The European Union Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENHIR) was asked to provide opinions on the suitability of existing methodologies for assessing human risks from nanotechnology. This document assesses the toxicology of nanoparticles and existing risk assessment methods. It describes the properties and sources of nanoparticles. It identifies methods of detection and risk assessment, and details potential exposure scenarios and methods of toxicology. The Report also recommends changes in existing regulations as necessary to address additional risks of nanotechnologies.



 
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