Brussels, 08/02/2008 (Agence Europe) - Europe is at the vanguard of the field of nanosciences and nanotechnologies (N&N), a booming scientific sector which is expected to have a major positive impact in economic, social and environmental terms. Nevertheless, there are gaps in the knowledge of the effects of these technologies on human health and the environment as well as issues of ethics and respect for fundamental rights. For this reason, on Friday 8 February the Commission recommended the member states to adopt a code of conduct governing research in this field.
The code of conduct rests on seven general principles: 1) Meaning: N&N research activities should be comprehensible to the public and respect fundamental rights. Their design, implementation, dissemination and use should serve the wellbeing of individuals and society. 2) Sustainability: N&N research activities should be safe, ethical and contribute to sustainable development. They should not harm people, animals, plants or the environment and should not threaten them in any way. 3) Precaution: N&N research activities should be conducted in accordance with the precautionary principle, anticipating potential environmental, health and safety impacts and taking due precautions proportional to the level of protection, while encouraging progress for the benefit of society and the environment. 4) 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. It should allow the participation in decision-making processes of all stakeholders involved in or concerned by N&N research activities. 5) Excellence: N&N research activities should meet the best scientific standards, including integrity of research and good laboratory practices. 6) Innovation: Governance of N&N research activities should encourage maximum creativity, flexibility and planning ability for innovation and growth. 7) Responsibility: Researchers and research organisations should remain accountable for the social, environmental and human health impacts of their work. (O.L.)