Nanotechnology that works with materials at molecular and atomic levels offers numerous opportunities. The technology also poses risks of which we might not yet be aware. Nanotech is receiving increasing attention from different perspectives.
Some of the nanotech applications being explored (and even actually used) include:
Carrying miniaturization further in electronics and developing innovative new products
Developing new materials that make for new or more effective industrial processes
Developing new treatments and diagnostics for diseases, such as cancer where existing treatments lead to undesirable side effects
Improving the processes in self-cleaning, which can solve several everyday problems
Improving protection against corrosion, as in the case of car bodywork
Enhancing protection against UV rays through their use in cosmetics
As against opportunities like those mentioned above, nanotechnology also poses risks such as the particles entering human bloodstream because of their minuscule size. Such dangers make it necessary to enact regulations that ensure safety aspects are considered by developers and producers. For example, people working with nanomaterials in research laboratories are exposed to unknown risks.
It is in such a context that the International Social Security Association is organizing a symposium on Nanotechnology. The symposium will seek to highlight the opportunities as well as the risks. It will also provide information on incidental legal regulations, national and international. The symposium is scheduled at KKL, Lucerne, Switzerland during October 4th and 5th, 2010.
Read about the event at ISSA website.
