LRI debates data torrent dilemma
13 January 2012
Data torrent dilemma debated at LRI workshop
How can the chemical industry, academia and regulatory authorities make best use of the torrent of data now emerging from chemical safety testing to achieve optimal risk assessment and management decisions? Around 100 attendees discussed the question at the 13th annual workshop of the Cefic Long-range Research Initiative (LRI), held November 16-17 in Brussels, Belgium.
Presentations and posters covered the portfolio of ongoing LRI work, including research on the effects of nanoparticles, ecotoxicology, and endocrine disrupting substances, the topic that effectively launched the Cefic – LRI program in the late 1990s. Contributions from animal welfare groups and media representatives were also included.
Call for global database
Dr. Melanie Bausen of BASF and chair of the LRI Strategy Implementation Group, voiced a key question for many speakers: "Are we becoming increasingly data giants and knowledge dwarfs?” A "one-for-all” solution was advocated by Klaus Berend of DG Enterprise, European Commission through the development of a global chemical toxicology database for regulatory purposes. Clearly, new mechanisms and processes for collation of data as well as its analysis and interpretation are needed so that science can more effectively feed into regulatory programs. In parallel, input from social scientists can contribute to interpretation of findings and communication of the risks and benefits.
Limited resources have boosted support for a move from hazard-based risk assessment to an exposure-driven approach. Establishment of risk assessment as a formalized academic discipline and career could accelerate progress.
A highlight of the workshop was presentation of the 2011 LRI Science Innovation Award to Dr. Thomas Preuss of RWTH Aachen University, who developed the winning application on this year’s theme, Putting Ecology Back into Ecotoxicology.
More information
The International Council of Chemical Associations (ICCA) is the worldwide voice of the chemical industry, a sector with 2009 turnover of more than €1,900 billion (excluding pharmaceuticals). ICCA members account for more than 60 percent of global chemical sales. The ICCA focuses on key issues for the chemical industry, and the promotion and coordination of Responsible Care® and safe chemicals management through the Global Product Strategy. Priority advocacy issues include chemicals management, regulatory affairs, and international climate negotiations.
Press contact