Eigenverlag/Self

Abstract:
The current voluntary approaches to the regulation of nanotechnology are characterized by a broad variety and major differences. At present, there are registers, codes of conducts, certification schemes and risk management systems. In addition, even within the same type noticeable differences can be observed. For instance the BASF code of conduct is restricted to enterprises while that of the IG-DHS is restricted to a certain region and to a specific sector (food). In contrast, the EU code of conduct not only applies to the whole of the EU, but encompasses also many sectors and even social sub-systems such as the economy, research and politics. However, it is restricted to research activities and their organization. Apart from the certifications for textiles and the IG-DHS code of conduct, all voluntary measures are characterized by an openness concerning the fields of application of nanotechnology. With respect to the registration of industrially produced nanoparticles, a trend towards the establishment of a mandatory system (register) can be observed.