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I. Courses on Nanotechnology
| Ethics of Nanoscale (Short Course) (Sophomore) in 2006 Fall
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| Department: | Chemical Engineering |
| Nanotechnology: Managing Potential Risks in a Climate of Uncertainty
The trajectory of nanotechnology research and development is determined not only by the academic and industrial technical communities but also by politicians and policy makers. One issue that is perceived to be a potential roadblock for commercialization of nanotech-enabled products is the concern over potential environmental and health impacts resulting from the production and use of nanomaterials. The political and regulatory landscape of nanotechnology is in constant flux as new information emerges. Can or should nanomaterials be treated any differently than other materials of the same or similar chemical composition? Are existing mechanisms equipped to handle this broad new class of materials? Is new regulation or legislation needed, if only to allay the concerns of the public? This talk will provide a review of the current climate for assessing potential risks of nanomaterials and a description of the International Council on Nanotechnology (ICON), an international, multi-stakeholder organization whose mission is to develop and communicate information regarding potential environmental and health risks of nanotechnology thereby fostering risk reduction while maximizing societal benefit. Governance of the council is shared among representatives from the academic, industrial, governmental and non-governmental (public interest) communities in the US and abroad. ICON projects include a comprehensive database of environmental health and safety literature, a survey of best practices for nanomaterial handling and an expert referral service linking knowledge seekers with experts in the field. |
II. Instructor(s) teaching on Nanotechnology:
III. Programs, Majors and Minors
IV. Centers and Conferences
| Center: Nanotechnology and Society Research Group |
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