EPA board examines environmental impacts of nanotech

December 14, 2003 | Source: KurzweilAI

Technologically intensive cleanup using nanotech could become a much cleaner and cheaper method of environmental remediation, said Center for Responsible Nanotechnology (CRN) Director of Research Chris Phoenix in testimony on Dec. 11 before the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Science Advisory Board, in a session convened to assess potential environmental impacts of nanotechnology.

However, according to the CRN report, “the ability to build small-format products intended for use in unconfined environments, including medical and surveillance devices, implies the accumulation of nano-litter…” or nanoparticles.

In addition, “Compact powerful products invite use as weapons. Cleanup after a military or terrorist strike could require new techniques.” The report played down the feasibility of the “gray goo” scenario.