Nanomaterials in the environment - Current state of knowledge and regulations on chemical safety
The German Environment Agency published a report with the main aim of outlining the necessary further development of chemicals regulations for nanomaterials with regard to the environment from UBA´s perspective.
Nanomaterials can have different or new properties in comparison with conventional chemicals and materials. Until now, with few exceptions, there are no specific provisions for nanomaterials within the substance legislations. As a result, specific environmental risks cannot be described and assessed adequately and appropriate measures to minimize the risks cannot be taken. Therefore, the main aim of this paper is to outline the necessary further development of chemicals regulations for nanomaterials with regard to the environment from UBA´s perspective. It is addressed particularly to players and decision-makers involved in discussions related to the adaptation of the various regulations on chemical safety. Firstly, the current state of knowledge about the environmental behaviour and the effects of nanomaterials is presented. The paper then considers general aspects of regulatory needs such as the definition of nanomaterials, their characterisation, and the assessment of related risks. It also describes the current consideration of nanomaterials in the existing active substance regulations and the specific requirements for adaptions. Finally, the activities of UBA are presented and the Agency’s recommendations with regard to this topic.
Source: German Environment Agency
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