Berlin Declaration | Five European countries issue call to address gaps in nanomaterial regulation

The 'Berlin Declaration' summarises the conclusions and recommendations of the 12th International Nano-Authorities Dialogue of Germany, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Austria and Switzerland and was acknowledged by the environment ministers of those countries at their annual meeting in June 2018.

The declaration acknowledges the progress that has been made in the regulatory framework for nanomaterials in the last few years, and especially the European Commission's Decision to adapt the annexes of the REACH Regulation to the requirements of nanomaterials.

It also sets out the needs identified for further activities in this field, most of which will have to be addressed at EU level. These needs include: i) the adaptation of test methods within the context of the OECD; ii) a transversal definition of nanomaterials in all relevant regulatory contexts in the EU; iii) the approach to be taken to the emerging topic of 'advanced materials'; iv) the continued support of research activities and SMEs in the field of nanomaterials; v) provisions to give the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) a permanent mandate for the EU Nano-Observatory.

Germany asks the Environmental Council to take note of the Declaration: CONTINUE READING THE Berlin Declaration