I was looking for some information on the state of play with regard to nanotechnology in Australia and I found this (although it has no link or date - the nanotechnology enquiry was established in December 2007) .
Nanotechnology Risks and Benefits to Come under Scrutiny by Parliamentary Inquiry in Australia by NSW State Government
As part of its continuing efforts to better understand the potential risks and benefits associated with nanotechnology, the NSW Government has initiated a parliamentary inquiry into this relatively new field of scientific endeavour – becoming the first Australian state or territory to do so.
Nanotechnology is the manipulation of matter at the atomic or molecular level – lengths equivalent to 1/100,000th the diameter of a human hair.
Minister for Science and Medical Research Verity Firth said nanotechnology has the very real potential to transform many sectors of the NSW economy, leading to new products, new businesses, new jobs and even new industries.
“Nanotechnology offers the promise of breakthroughs that will revolutionise the way we detect and treat disease; monitor and protect the environment; and produce and store energy,” said Ms Firth.
“But before the technology’s full potential can be released, safety and ethical concerns need to be assessed by governments.”
Some groups have already raised anxieties about the technology’s possible negative implications for human health and the natural environment.
“That’s why I’ve written to the Legislative Council's Standing Committee for State Development asking it to investigate the potential environmental, health, safety, legal and ethical implications or uncertainties that may arise from the development and use of nano-material and products,” said Ms Firth.
“As the use of man-made nano-materials become more common, we want to make sure they will not have unexpected consequences for people or the environment.
“The inquiry will seek to reassure the community as well as make sure the Government’s regulatory arrangements are both adequate and appropriate.
“Ultimately we want a balanced and informed approach to nanotechnology.”
Source
Anyway, I thought I should see if the final report had been released yet. It has!! Here it is "Nanotechnology in New South Wales". It was released in October 2008. I am going to have a look at it tonight (should be good reading). Hopefully a few posts will follow - I will report back soon.
Nanotechnology Risks and Benefits to Come under Scrutiny by Parliamentary Inquiry in Australia by NSW State Government
As part of its continuing efforts to better understand the potential risks and benefits associated with nanotechnology, the NSW Government has initiated a parliamentary inquiry into this relatively new field of scientific endeavour – becoming the first Australian state or territory to do so.
Nanotechnology is the manipulation of matter at the atomic or molecular level – lengths equivalent to 1/100,000th the diameter of a human hair.
Minister for Science and Medical Research Verity Firth said nanotechnology has the very real potential to transform many sectors of the NSW economy, leading to new products, new businesses, new jobs and even new industries.
“Nanotechnology offers the promise of breakthroughs that will revolutionise the way we detect and treat disease; monitor and protect the environment; and produce and store energy,” said Ms Firth.
“But before the technology’s full potential can be released, safety and ethical concerns need to be assessed by governments.”
Some groups have already raised anxieties about the technology’s possible negative implications for human health and the natural environment.
“That’s why I’ve written to the Legislative Council's Standing Committee for State Development asking it to investigate the potential environmental, health, safety, legal and ethical implications or uncertainties that may arise from the development and use of nano-material and products,” said Ms Firth.
“As the use of man-made nano-materials become more common, we want to make sure they will not have unexpected consequences for people or the environment.
“The inquiry will seek to reassure the community as well as make sure the Government’s regulatory arrangements are both adequate and appropriate.
“Ultimately we want a balanced and informed approach to nanotechnology.”
Source
Anyway, I thought I should see if the final report had been released yet. It has!! Here it is "Nanotechnology in New South Wales". It was released in October 2008. I am going to have a look at it tonight (should be good reading). Hopefully a few posts will follow - I will report back soon.
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Also check out:
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Some Australian Nanotechnology Information
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So please, tell us what you think.
**If you enjoyed this post please also check out:
What is nanotechnology?
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History of Nanotechnology
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Nanotechnology - risks and benefits
Nanotechnology and Climate Change
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So please, tell us what you think.
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