Federal government activities

The Swiss federal government is actively involved in research and dialogue at national and international level.

International Nano-Authorities Dialogue

The International Nano-Authorities Dialogue, which was first held in Munich in 2006, is a transnational platform on the safe and sustainable use of nanotechnology involving environmental, health, and occupational safety authorities and representatives. Its members from Switzerland, Austria, Germany, Liechtenstein and, since 2016, Luxembourg meet once a year with various NGOs, organisations and businesses. The aim of this platform is to provide a space for these authorities to share experiences and pursue transnational dialogue on current issues surrounding nanotechnology and nano governance.

The 16th International Nano-Authorities Dialogue

The 16th International Nano Authorities Dialogue was organised by the Austrian Federal Ministry for Climate Action, Environment, Energy, Mobility, Innovation and Technology (BMK) and took place for one day in Vienna. The topics discussed were (i) safe and sustainable by design (SSbD), (ii) analytical challenges of micro- and nano plastics in food, (iii) challenges arising specifically from nanotechnology to the adaptation of the European Regulation on Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH) and, (iv) the testing and development of strategic approaches for the management of new materials in chemical safety, exemplified by nanocarriers.

In 2025, Germany will host the 17th International Nano-Authorities Dialogue.