What do EU citizens think about nanomaterials?
Citizens call for better labeling of everyday products and greater awareness of risks and benefits.
A study commissioned by the EU Observatory on Nanomaterials (EUON) measured and analyzed how citizens in Austria, Bulgaria, Finland, France and Poland perceive nanomaterials and their potential risks to our health and the environment.
It found that despite the fact that manufactured nanomaterials are an everyday part of our lives, general awareness of their nature, properties and characteristics is low. However, compared to previous surveys, awareness has increased and is expected to continue to increase in the future.
The study identified some concerns about the safety of some established and newer applications of traditional and emerging nanomaterials. However, the overall risk perception of nanomaterials was lower than for other modern trends and technologies.
The results confirm that concerns often correlate with a lack of awareness about nanomaterials. People who know more about nanomaterials tend to be less concerned about the safety of using nanomaterials in everyday products.
The majority (87%) of study participants would like to know if the product they are buying contains nanomaterials. This information could be provided on a label or packaging, for example. They indicated that it would be particularly important to have the information on the product label for food and food-related products, medicines, cosmetics, clothing and textiles, toys and detergents, or household products.
The study's main recommendation is to raise European citizens' awareness of nanomaterials, including their benefits and risks, to ensure that the public can make informed decisions. This will be achieved by sharing information and communicating the benefits and safety aspects of nanomaterials.
The study also recommends expanding the survey to all 27 EU countries. It outlines the need for further research to determine the most appropriate type of labeling for products containing nanomaterials and whether existing labeling regulations would need to be adapted. If implemented, the recommendations aim to help authorities and regulators improve information and communication about nanomaterials. This will enable consumers to better understand how nanomaterials and nanotechnology are used in various products and address important information needed by the general public to better understand the benefits and risks of nanomaterials.
Original publication: ECHA – Understanding public perception of nanomaterials and their safety in the EU
Source: Chemie.de – Was denken die EU-Bürger über Nanomaterialien?