Code of Conduct for Responsible Nanotechnologies Research

7th December 2007

Following last week's IoN conference, the ENTA has posted the following response on its website:

Agenda

1. Nanotechnology has a huge potential with many benefits. Industry acknowledges concerns of potential risks of nanotechnology and any relevant regulatory regimes arising in the future could be welcomed provided they are rational, appropriate, take a balanced view of benefit VS risk and will assist industry to develop nanotechnology responsibly.

Industry is committed to building trust of the public through transparent engagement while assisting governments in delivering economic, social and environmental impacts as outlined in the scheme.

ENTA has a core value which states, “We must be responsible custodians of this exciting branch of science and ensure a fair framework that enables the EU to compete effectively on the world stage.” The Code of Conduct must not allow for the disproportionate application of the precautionary principle as in many applications, the Precautionary Principle may cause more harm than it alleviates.

2. ENTA welcomes this initiative as it encourages a responsible strategy and good governance of nanotechnology. However the safe development of nanotechnologies must provide scientific and sound data that meet policy objectives. Policy should not be driven by unsubstantiated risk concerns that have a high level of emotional appeal. Research would ideally be addressed by multidisciplinary teams. Against this background, what research is needed to allow the safe, sustainable and profitable development of the field of nanotechnology? ENTA recommends:

· More application driven funding for nanotechnology

· Less fragmented networks and more consolidation of efforts

· More training and communication activities

· Guidance on successfully implementing self-sustaining framework projects

There is also a desire to capitalise on FP6 and FP7 funding.

Also more clarity is desired regarding the “Open Forum” and term “use” of nanotechnologies should not be included in the Code of Conduct as the Code relates to research only.

3. ENTA welcomes the principles outlined by the Code of Conduct; however the final document should not include wording that implies the presumption of risk.

Many scientists agree that there was no special reason to suggest that products using nanotechnologies would be dangerous. ENTA members are working hard to provide consumers with safe products that are beneficial and meet societal needs and ENTA members ensure new nanotechnologies are developed in a safe and responsible manner.

The formation and implementation of a well-considered management strategy is critical.

4. Research should be conducted in all areas that lead to innovative products and devices which have the potential to greatly benefit society.

5. ENTA is happy to participate in follow-up measures and also participating in debates. The dialogue must be open, honest and continual and handled properly from the very earliest stages of nanotechnology commercialisation. Therefore it is vital for every company to clearly define and explain to stakeholders what is "nano" about their application, why it makes sense (benefits!) and how it relates to former technologies and solutions.

Sustainability, safety, and communication are also issues for SMEs and open debate about good H&S practices, information, communication, promotions and disclosure will become important issues for SMEs.

6. ENTA’s members would be balloted to determine this.