The DaNa4.0 web-based Knowledge Base Materials – 13 years on reliable risk communication on (nano)materials safety

Background, Motivation and Objective
For more than 20 years, research has been ongoing worldwide on the safety and risks of nanomaterials. In times of social change, science has a special responsibility to provide evidence-based answers and solutions to the pressing issues of today, such as climate change or digitalisation. The tasks also include science communication, intensifying the dialog with the public, objectifying current debates and educating about the challenges and opportunities of new scientific developments.

Statement of Contribution/Methods
Already in 2009, the online knowledge base on nanomaterials www.nanoobjects.info was established to share scientific results on the safety of nanomaterials with the public at an early stage and in a value-neutral manner. In 2020, advanced materials were added to this information platform to provide understanding and awareness of toxicological data on these materials as early as possible.

Results/Discussion
The DaNa4.0 knowledge base materials is currently providing safety-relevant information on 28 advanced materials, including nanomaterials, with regards to human health and environmental impact. ... mehrA monthly spotlight article on recent scientific publications as well as numerous cross-cutting articles on topics such as advanced materials for environmental remediation or as ingredients in medical devices complement this knowledge base. The knowledge base is accompanied by social media channels (Twitter and LinkedIn) in order to achieve the widest possible reach for the dissemination of information.
In this poster, the authors describe the strategy and methodology for addressing risk communication issues on nanomaterials and other advanced materials.