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Protection of water resources requires knowledge of the environmental risks of various chemicals. In addition to the large number of known compounds, new chemicals are continuously being developed. A further concern is that known chemicals are constantly being used in new ways, for example in the form of nanoparticles, with little currently known about the environmental consequences.
NIVA investigates the acute and chronic effects of both short-term and long-term exposure to chemicals, how they react and convert into new compounds, are transported and persist in the environment.
NIVA activities include:
- testing the effects of chemicals on living cells, individuals and populations, in keeping with international standards
- developing alternative techniques for the testing of chemicals
- developing chemical analysis methods
- researching ways in which chemicals behave in aquatic environments and assessing environmental risks
Our expertise in research and practical testing is useful for our clients from governmental agencies to businesses and industry.
International legislation on chemicals
With the EU's new legislation regarding chemicals, REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals), a new framework has been implemented that affects the ways that chemicals are to be tested and authorised before their market release.
In the oil-and-gas industry there are now specific regulations on the use and handling of chemicals; Harmonised Offshore Chemical Notification Format (HOCNOF).
Contact:
Kevin Thomas, research manager, Ecotoxicology and risk assessment
Torgeir Bakke, research manager, Contaminants in marine environments
Thorjørn Larssen, research manager, Contaminants in freshwater environments
Kristin MacBeath, research manager, Chemical analysis
