Nanotechnology and manufactured nanomaterials (nano) is a growing industry which creates an array of economic and social benefits, while potential risks to human health and the environment are, to date, not fully known. With numerous nano-containing products available in the market, there is a need to prepare appropriate regulations and safety standards.
To address the global challenges, nano has been included as key topic (an “emerging policy issue”) under the Strategic Approach to International Chemicals Management (SAICM). The third International Conference on Chemicals Management (ICCM3) emphasized “the need for UNITAR and the Organization for Economic Cooperation and Development to continue development of international guidance and training materials for the sound management of manufactured nanomaterials, drawing on existing initiatives, needs assessment and best practices, within their respective mandates and subject to available resources in cooperation with the regions and other relevant stakeholders".
Working under the Inter-Organization Programme for the Sound Management of Chemicals (IOMC), UNITAR has implemented, since 2009, a range of activities to support developing countries in raising awareness on nanosafety issues and consider the implications of nano-based and nano-containing products traded across borders. Core funding for these activities has been generously provided by the Government of Switzerland.
