September 22, 2006

scientists respond to DEFRA’s nanotechnology voluntary reporting scheme

Defra has today launched a new initiative to work towards addressing any potential risks posed by the products of nanotechnologies.

Prof Gabriel Aeppli Director, London Centre for Nanotechnology, UCL, said:

“This is a step forward for establishing both a necessary data base as well as maintaining public trust. The fact that the programme is voluntary and that the format for submissions is not rigid means that at least so far, paperwork burdens should not deter UK innovation in the nanomaterials sphere.”

Prof Mark Welland, Director of the Interdisciplinary Research Centre (IRC) in Nanotechnology, University of Cambridge, said:

“This is a positive first step in the responsible introduction of nanotechnology based products into the market place. Products containing nanoparticles must be properly tested for potential toxicity before their widespread use by the public. The voluntary reporting scheme introduced by DEFRA helps to inform our understanding of the nanoparticles being produced at the moment so that we can initiate appropriate toxicology studies.”

Dr Ottilia Saxl, CEO, Institute of Nanotechnology, said:

“The Institute of Nanotechnology welcomes this initiative from DEFRA. Voluntary reporting schemes have worked well in the United States. They clearly have their advantages and disadvantages but it is a first step in the right direction and as much as one could expect at this stage.”