Denmark plans mandatory nanomaterials product database

According to Environmental Minister Ida Auken, “We still lack knowledge when it comes to nano. ​Therefore, it is crucial that we get a grip on where there is nano, and what it is used for.​”

Under a draft amendment to the Danish Chemicals Act, the new order will require producers and importers to report products containing or releasing nanomaterials.

Auken further states that nanotechnology offers growth potential and can save both energy and resources for the countey; “I want a green transition, where both the environment and industry can grow hand in hand. ​Nanotechnology is a great example of this,​” she says.

The nano database is said to be the first step in a wider effort in which the minister will clarify what effects it has on consumers and the environment;“The effort and time we put in now will help to clarify the uncertainty raised in the nanomaterial area​.”

The initative is the result of an agreement between the Government and the Alliance and the Ministry is planning for the first report to be published by early 2014.

Danish government doing its own thing…​

Last month the Danish government went ahead and banned four industrial chemicals linked to disrupting the human endocrine system, despite the European Union’s ruling to phase out phthalates.

Then, minister Ida Auken had announced that the ban would be introduced this autumn in regards to DEHP, DBP, DIBP and BBP phthalates, despite the European's Comission's decision to look into the area and phase out the chemicals by spring 2013.

Auken is said to have been aware of the EU's official ban to come in the fall, which could potentially result in the Commission taking legal action against Denmark for taking the decision to go ahead and completely ban phthalates now.

In response to the government's action, the European Commission has said that it will continue to monitor Denmark's developments and take "appropriate action​" in this instance.