EC Adopts Code of Conduct for Nanotechnologies Research

February 8, 2008 // Published as a news service by IHS

The European Commission (EC) recommended that the European Union (EU) adopt a code of conduct to govern responsible research in the nanosciences and nanotechnologies (N&N) field.

Based around seven general principles that cover such issues as sustainability, precaution, inclusiveness and accountability, the proposed code invites EU member states to take concrete action, involving universities, research institutes and companies, for the safe development and use of nanotechnologies.

Europe is in the vanguard of N&N, a developing field of science with the potential for major positive impact economically, socially and environmentally. Nevertheless, knowledge gaps remain about the impact of these technologies on human health and the environment, as well as issues relating to ethics and the respect of fundamental rights.

"Nanotechnologies and nanosciences could very well be the next revolutionin enabling technologies, and Europe has a good track record in theirdevelopment," said Janez Potočnik, EC science and research commissioner.

"Part of our strength is in the attention we are giving to their responsible development and use. The code of conduct is a tool developed by the EC, after consulting with the public, that will make it very simple to address the legitimate concerns that can arise regarding nanotechnologies," he added.

The EC launched a consultation on the code of conduct in July 2007 (see IP/07/1140) and, on the basis of the replies received, drew up the proposed code on Feb. 8. This new code is in line with promoting integrated safe and responsible nanosciences and nanotechnologies, which lies at the heart of the 2005 Nanotechnologies Action Plan (see IP/07/1321).

The seven principles in the code are:

• Meaning - N&N research activities should be comprehensible to the public. They should respect fundamental rights and be conducted in the interest of the well-being of individuals and society in their design, implementation, dissemination and use.

• Sustainability - N&N research activities should be safe, ethical and contribute to sustainable development. They should not harm or threaten people, animals, plants or the environment, at present or in the future.

• Precaution - N&N research activities should be conducted in accordance with the precautionary principle, anticipating potential environmental, health and safety impacts of N&N outcomes as well as taking due precautions, proportional to the level of protection, while encouraging progress for the benefit of society and the environment.

• Inclusiveness - Governance of N&N research activities should be guided by the principles of openness to all stakeholders, transparency and respect for the legitimate right of access to information. They should allow the participation in decision-making processes of all stakeholders involved in or concerned by N&N research activities.

• Excellence - N&N research activities should meet the best scientific standards, including integrity of research and good laboratory practices.

• Innovation - Governance of N&N research activities should encourage maximum creativity, flexibility and planning ability for innovation and growth.

• Accountability - Researchers and research organisations should remain accountable for the social, environmental and human health impacts of their work.

The code of conduct also provides guidelines that implement these sevenprinciples under good governance of research, due respect of precaution, and dissemination and monitoring of the code.

For more information on nanotechnologies in Europe, see IP/07/1738.

Source: European Commission.