The Law of the European Union on Nanotechnologies: Comments on a Paradox

European Union (EU) law and policy on nanotechnologies reveals what might seem like a paradox. Even if the EU acts as a leading investor in this area, there is no regulation specifically targeting nanotechnologies. While a great number of European regulations could be applicable to nanomaterials, these still require further examination. However, the adaptation of current provisions has not been successful so far due to terminological inconsistencies, which have not been completely resolved by the adoption of the recommendation of the European Commission on a definition for nanomaterials.