International Alliance for NanoEHS Harmonization

Understanding the biological impacts of nanoparticles on human health and the environment is important to secure the safe and responsible world-wide implementation of nanotechnology. Technical differences of opinion on toxicological impacts of nanoparticles have arisen in the literature, and most scientists are increasingly aware of the challenges of achieving reproducibility. Confusion arising from these differences can lead to undeserved negative public perception of nanotechnology, without basis in scientific fact. On the other hand, if genuine hazards are identified, this confusion could lead to the warnings of scientists being ignored. The priority is to create a trustworthy, and trusted, co-operation between scientists where results are simultaneously and carefully checked in blind studies, in different laboratories around the world.

This round robin process does not rely on the opinions of individuals, individual organizations or from any single source, including individuals within the Alliance. Before conclusion of a study, outcomes must be unanimous across the laboratories around the world. Results therefore cannot be easily influenced by any stakeholder, or external pressures. The Alliance will provide a trusted and neutral scientific platform for generating knowledge. It will play no role in framing or discussing policy in the nanotechnology arena. Indeed, it seeks to co-operate with National and International bodies charged with the more formal responsibility of ensuring safety, and to provide them with useful inputs. Its mission is verified science, and the means to create this. It will make its conclusions freely available, after thorough review.