Risk Assessment and Concerns Raised About Nanotechnology

Several non-governmental organisations are calling for greater risk evaluations or, in the case of Canada's ETC Group, a nanotech research moratorium. They, and others including the US-based Centre for Responsible Nanotechnology, have raised concerns about the following aspects of nanotechnology:

•        The toxicity of bulk material, such as solid silver, does not help predict the toxicity of nanoparticles of that same material.

•        Nanoparticles have the potential to remain and accumulate in the environment.

•        They could accumulate in the food chain.

•        They could have unforeseen impacts on human health.

•        The public has not been sufficiently involved in debates on the applications, uses, and regulation of nanotechnology.

•        'Grey goo': Tiny robots generated with nanotechnology could acquire the ability to self-replicate.

•        If the rich countries are the main drivers of the development of nanotechnology, applications which benefit developing nations will be side-lined.

•        Unless rapid action is taken, research into nanotechnology could progress faster than systems can be put in place to regulate its applications and their uses.