OECD | Moving Towards a Safe(r) Innovation Approach (SIA) for More Sustainable Nanomaterials and Nano-enabled Products

This OECD project aims to contribute to the discussion on a ‘Safe(r) Innovation Approach’ for more sustainable nanomaterials and nano-enabled products. The document presents common working descriptions to ensure a common understanding of concepts such as: Safe(r) Innovation Approach and its elements, Safe(r)-by-Design and Regulatory Preparedness. Then the document compiles existing risk assessment tools, frameworks and initiatives developed for Safe(r)-by-Design. The inventory of risk assessment tools and frameworks should contribute in assisting industry to implement a 'Safe(r) Innovation Approach' for NMs and nano-enabled products. This includes a review of lessons learned from applying existing Safe(r)-by-Design concepts and tools and methods applied in hazard, exposure and risk assessment and management along the innovation value chain. A review of the applicability of the Safe(r)-by-Design concept, based on feedback gained through case studies and existing initiatives was conducted. The constraints and limitations on the applicability of these tools and frameworks were analysed.

Link to the OECD | Moving Towards a Safe(r) Innovation Approach (SIA) for More Sustainable Nanomaterials and Nano-enabled Products