23/08/2006
The rapid pace of nanotechnology development has sparked fierce debate in recent months around the risks and benefits to society of infinitely small technologies. While nanometer-scale structures have not yet progressed much beyond the test tube stage, some industrial applications have already developed in areas like advanced medical technologies, and even consumer goods like paint and sun lotions.

While nanotechnologies may bring major benefits to society, not least by significantly reducing the volume of raw materials and energy needed to produce consumer goods, they also raise many concerns about the potential risks posed to our health and the environment.

The tragedy of asbestos, a microscopic mineral fibre whose “miracle” properties were once also hailed by industry and some scientists, taught labour unions to be wary of substances invisible to the unaided human eye. The health consequences for workers who handle nanomaterials are still shrouded in unknowns.

The ETUI-REHS Health and Safety Department could not stand apart from the debate on these substances. For three years from next September we shall be taking part in the NANOCAP project initiated by a Dutch sustainable development research institute. Universities, environmental protection NGOs and trade unions from several European countries will also take part in the project. The aim is to expand our knowledge of nanotechnologies and what their rapid development will mean for society. The NANOCAP partners also aim to push industry and the scientific community to make risk management central to nanotechnology development and marketing.

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