Small size - large impact - Nanowerk

not weight, and this should be borne in mind when
assessing the environmental risks associated with
nanotechnology. In addition, the increased surface
area to mass ratio that such particles possess makes
them potentially more reactive. One major risk to
the environment is the possible accumulation of
nanoparticles within living organisms, making the
detoxification of certain nanoparticles before their
release into the environment essential.
When it comes to human health, nanotechnology
has a significant and exciting potential to improve
healthcare in fields including imaging and microscopy,
diagnostics, and transport and dosing of drugs to name
but a few. But there are still many unknowns, including
what happens to nanoparticles after the release of
drugs and coatings: are they degraded, accumulated
or excreted? If they are accumulated, are they
potentially carcinogenic?
Presentations from representatives of the industries
involved in developing nanomaterials led to discussion
of a possible re-examination of toxicology methods
used to study nanoparticles, moving away from classical
toxicology methods and taking into account their
unusual properties and the diverse ways in which they
are being used – an idea that met with some opposition
from certain industry representatives. During this debate,
it became clear that there is currently some discrepancy
in risk perception between the nanotechnology industry
and insurers and the public.
On the other side of the coin, Richard Murray, Chief
Claims Strategist, Swiss Re presented some of the risks
that nanotechnolgy itself faces in the form of liability
claims. While urging participants not to be put off
by the challenging liability regimes that are prevalent
today, especially in the US, Murray urged that they
should be aware of potential pitfalls, and accept that
the industry will undoubtedly face challenging liability
conditions in the future.
Communicating risk and building trust
Such a challenging liability regime underlines the need
to communicate risks effectively and build trust. Nor
is this the only reason that the nanotechnology industry
needs to cultivate a positive public image – a public
that feels threatened by a new technology can in turn
threaten that technology’s very survival. Participants
agreed that for nanotechnology to succeed it is vital that
it does not fall into the trap of alienating public opinion.
For Paul Davies, Chief Scientist and Director of
Corporate Science and Analytical Services, Health
and Safety Executive, UK, appropriate and consistent
regulation is one way of raising the level of public trust.
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