Nanotechnology News

May 2008

BNA's Web Watch is prepared by Laura Gordon-Murnane. E-mail suggestions for future weekly topics always welcome. If you would like to be notified when new materials have been posted, send me an email with your contact information.

May 8, 2008

DEFRA has published a summary of work underway to help ensure the responsible development of nanotechnologies. The summary notes of 140 organizations contacted only nine facilities have volunteered to provide information about the nanomaterials they make.

DEFRA
Nanotechnology Research Coordination Group (NRCG)
Note of the 14th Meeting
The fourteenth meeting of the NRCG was held on 7 April 2008. It was
attended by representatives from across Government Departments,
Regulatory Agencies and the Research Councils. (May 8, 2008)

HEAL Factsheet
NANOTECHNOLOGY AND HEALTH RISKS

Committee on Science and Technology
Full Committee Markup - H.R. 5940 [Scheduled]
National Nanotechnology Initiative Amendments Act of 2008

Bill Number HR 5940

May 1, 2008

The European Commisson is proposing to upate the approvals process for novel foods, and includes foods made with nanotechnology or cloning to be novel. The Agency has issued a consultation on the proposals.

Too much nanotechnology may be killing beneficial bacteria.

Governance and Ethics of Nanotechnology
First conference on the Recommendation of the European Commission 
on a Code of Conduct for Responsible Nanosciences 
and Nanotechnologies Research

April 29, 2008

DEFRA
An Assessment of Regulatory Testing Strategies and Methods for Characterizing the Ecotoxicological Hazards of Nanomaterials (Expanded Report)

Senate Committee - Science, Technology, and Innovation Hearing
National Nanotechnology Initiative: Charting the Course for Reauthorization
Science, Technology, and Innovation
Thursday, April 24, 2008

Project on Emerging Technologies
New Nanotech Products Hitting the Market at the Rate of 3-4 Per Week
Nanotechnology Consumer Products Are in Your Mouth and On Your Face

International Council on Nanotechnology
Launches Global Research Needs Assessment Thursday May 1, 2008 - 2 to 3 PM

Environmental Defense (Blog)
EPA Nano Authority under TSCA, Part 1: It All Depends on What “New” Means April 22, 2008
Richard Denison

GAO Report
Nanotechnology: Accuracy of Data on Federally Funded Environmental, Health, and Safety Research Could be Improved

The Nanoethics Group
Publishes nanotechnology anthology with Springer

April 21, 2008

Europe Spends Nearly Twice as Much as U.S. on Nanotech Risk Research
Assessment of 2006 Funding Shows U.S. Lags in Highly Relevant Nano Risk Research Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies (PEN)

National Nanotechnology Initiative: Charting the Course for Reauthorization Science, Technology, and Innovation
Thursday, April 24, 2008 02:30 PM

Joint Meeting of the Chemicals Committee and the Working Party on Chemicals, Pesticides and Biotechnology
Current Developments/ Activities on the Safety of Manufactured Nanomaterials/ Nanotechnologies

House Science & Technology Committee
Committee Moves Forward On Nanotechnology Reauthorization
(April 16, 2008)

President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology
THE NATIONAL NANOTECHNOLOGY INITIATIVE: Second Assessment and Recommendations of the National Nanotechnology Advisory Panel (April 2008)

1 PEN 1 - Room at the Bottom?
Potential State and Local Strategies for Managing the Risks and Benefits of Nanotechnology  Suellen Keiner (March 2008)

Manufactured Buckyballs Don't Harm Microbes That Clean The Environment, Study Shows

Nanotechnology in The Environment: Making Sure Wonder Materials Don't Become Wonder Pollutants

April 4, 2008

VCI (German Chemical Industry Association). (February 2008). Requirements of the REACH Regulation on Substances which are Manufactured or Imported also as Nanomaterials. Report

Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition
Regulating Emering Technologies in Silicon Valley and Beyond
 (April 2008)

Lewinski, N; Colvin, V; Drezek, R. (January 2008). Cytotoxicity of nanoparticles. Small, 4(1): 26-49. Abstract

Helland, A., Scheringer, M. et al. (2008). Risk Assessment of Engineered Nanomaterials: A Survey of Industrial Approaches. Environ. Sci. Technol., 42(2): 640–646. Abstract.

Hannah, W; Thompson, PB. (2008). Nanotechnology, risk and the environment: a review. Journal of environmental monitoring, 10(3): 291-300. Abstract

March 26, 2008

NIOSH
Nanotechnology Fact Sheets:
The Nanotechnology Field Research Team Update
NIOSH Nanotechnology Field Research Effort Fact Sheet
NIOSH Nanotechnology Metal Oxide Particle Exposure Assessment Study

March 24, 2008

Donaldson, K. Aitken, R., Tran, L., Stone, V., Duffin, R., Forrest, G., and Alexander, A. (2006). Carbon nanotubes: A review of their properties in relation to pulmonary toxicological and workplace safety. Toxicological Sciences, 92(1):5-22 Article (Abstract Only)

Nano Risk Management Training Workshops
On April 2nd and April 8th, Terry Medley and Keith Swain from DuPont and I will be leading two interactive workshops on nano risk management
Register for the April 2nd workshop in San Francisco or contact Lesley Fore at Lesley.Fore@GreenBlue.org

Register for the Tuesday, April 8th workshop in Boston

The Future of Nanotechnology: a legislative summit
(Nanowerk News) This summit is the first step for stakeholders from industry, government, research institutes and environmental groups to discuss responsible ways to regulate nanotechnology without stifling progress.
Date: Friday, April 25, 2008
Time: 8:00a.m. - 9:00a.m. Continental Breakfast; 9:00a.m. - noon Program
Location: California Nanosystems Institute (CNSI) Auditorium
Sponsors: Assemblymember Mike Feuer (AD 42 - D), Office of the Vice Chancellor for Research (OVCR), State Government Relations (SGR) and the California Nanosystems Institute (CNSI)
Contact: For more information, contact Suzanne Smith at (310) 825-5455

March 14, 2008

Next date for US Patent Office 'Nanotechnology Customer Partnership Meeting' announced

DATE AND LOCATION: This meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 22, 2008, from 1:00 pm to 5:00 pm, in the South Auditorium, Madison Building, Concourse Level, located at 600 Dulany Street, in Alexandria, Virginia.  Requests for Attendance at the Partnership Meeting

Due to space limitations, please RSVP by e-mail to jill.warden@uspto.gov or by telephone to Jill Warden at (571) 272-1267 to confirm your attendance. If it becomes necessary to restrict the number of attendees, we will do so on a first come-first served basis.

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Nanomaterials: Hazards and risks to health and the environment. A supplementary guide for the UK Voluntary Reporting Scheme ( 12 March 2008 )

March 13, 2008

Friends of the Earth Nanotechnology Project
Out of the laboratory and on to our plates: Nanotechnology in food and agriculture (March 2008)

Food Additives and Contaminants
Applications and implications of nanotechnologies for the food sector
241 – 258
Authors: Qasim Chaudhry;  Michael Scotter;  James Blackburn;  Bryony Ross;  Alistair Boxall;  Laurence Castle;  Robert Aitken; Richard Watkins
DOI: 10.1080/02652030701744538
(abstract only – full text requires subscription)  

NATO is sponsoring a multi-day nanoconference in Faro, Portugal on April 27-30, 2008 -- "Nanomaterials: Environmental Risks and Benefits and Emerging Consumer Products." 

March 11, 2008

A transcript of and power point presentations given at Nanogovernance 2008, a Feb. 12 conference sponsored by the George Washington University Law School, Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP, and the Environmental Law Institute are now available at Nanogovernance

U.S. Department of Energy Office of Inspector General Office of Audit Services Audit Report - Nanoscale Materials Safety at the Department's Laboratories (February 2008)

Nanotechnology: A Global Strategic Business Report" published by Global Industry Analysts (cost is $4950) - table of contents is available

March 10, 2008

Nanotechnology in New South Wales (Inquiry)
This inquiry is a current Legislative Council inquiry conducted by the State Development Committee. The Standing Committee on State Development is conducting an inquiry into nanotechnolgy in New South Wales. The terms of reference for the inquiry were referred by the Minister for Science and Medical Research, the Hon Verity Firth MP.  More information on nanotechnology.

A variety of articles on nanotechnology and governance strategies are available.

Throne-Holst, H; Sto, E. Who should be precautionary? Governance of nanotechnology in the risk society. Technology analysis & strategic management, 20(1): 99-112. (requires subscription)

Record of Deliberations   
Responsible Nanotechnology Code Initiative Working Group Meeting Five 7th Feruary 2008: Meeting FIVE of the Working Group
The Working Group reviewed the full consultation feedback and proposed amendments to the Code.  In addition a paper on monitoring and compliance was prepared and presented by an independent expert.

Workshop on research on the safety of nanomaterials: reviewing the knowledge gaps.
Brussels on 17-18 April 2008.
Check the draft agenda here.

March 7, 2008

NIOSH Safety and Health Topic: Nanotechnology Strategic Plan for NIOSH Nanotechnology Research: Filling the Knowledge Gaps

Dingman, J.
Nanotechnology: Its impact on food safety
Journal of Environmental Health
Dingman, J. Journal of Environmental Health 2008, 70, 47-50.
Table of contents only (requires subscription)

nanoTX USA is an international conference and trade expo held each early Autumn in Dallas, Texas, and is the centermost nanotechnology event in the Americas during International Nanotechnology Week™, this year October 2-3.

Environmental Defense Blog
Stating the Obvious: Nano Cosmetics Risk Assessment is Inadequate
March 5, 2008
Posted by Richard Denison
Just after publishing my last post, I learned that the European Commission’s Scientific Committee on Consumer Products has released a new Scientific Opinion that concludes current risk assessment procedures and methods applied to cosmetics, in particular sunscreens, are insufficient.

Aquatic Toxicology
Volume 86, Issue 3, 18 February 2008, Pages 379-387
Toxicity and bioaccumulation of xenobiotic organic compounds in the presence of aqueous suspensions of aggregates of nano-C60 (Abstract only)

March 5, 2008

Breaking the Chemical and Engineering Barriers to Lignocellulosic Biofuels: Next Generation Hydrocarbon Biorefineries
BASED ON THE JUNE 25-26,2007 WORKSHOP WASHINGTON,D.C. WORKSHOP CHAIR: GEORGE W.HUBER UNIVERSITY OF MASSACHUSETTS AMHERST

Environmental Defense Blog
What Was the White House Thinking?
Richard Denison, Ph.D.,
It’s been a few months now since the White House took the unusual step of articulating some “Principles for Nanotechnology EH&S Oversight.” Given recent events, it’s worth again reflecting on this official memorandum, which was signed by the heads of the White House’s Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) and Office of Science and Technology Policy (OSTP) and sent to the heads of all federal agencies and departments.

Nanotech BC has released the FINAL VERSION of its Asset Map, prepared with support from the BC Ministry of Economic Development. This Map is the most comprehensive view of the nanotechnology community in BC to date

UW announcement on nano workshop for journalists: The Big Picture on Small Things: Exploring nanotechnology’s benefits and risks when communicating with the public
When: July 20–22, 2008
Where: University of Wisconsin–Madison, Madison, WI

Nanotechnology in Health Care: Possibilities, Risks, and Benefits
 Where: ·  Exploratorium, The museum of science, art and human perception at the Palace of Fine Arts, 3601 Lyon Street, San Francisco, CA 94123
When: ·  Thursday, March 13, 2008 from 6:30-9:00 p.m.
·  Check-in and registration begins at 6:30
·  Forum begins promptly at 6:45
Space is limited. Register Online.
For further information contact forum@exploratorium.edu

UK government's Ministerial Group on Nanotechnologies
Statement on Nanotechnologies issued by the
Summary Statement (March 4, 2008)
Summary note of the 9th meeting of the Nanotechnologies Stakeholder Forum and associated presentations (3 March 2008)

March 4, 2008

The European Commission's Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (SCCP)
OPINION ON SAFETY OF NANOMATERIALS IN COSMETIC PRODUCTS
Adopted by the SCCP after the public consultation on the 14th Plenary Session of 18 December 2007

Doubts over US and EU nanosafety drives
Regulators on both sides of the Atlantic have recently stepped up efforts to monitor the potential impacts of nanotechnology on the environment and public health. But with many goods incorporating nanotechnology already on sale, some experts fear that the voluntary codes being proposed are not enough to ensure such products are safe. 

DC Report 2008 - Nano 2.0 and the Year of the ReAuThorization
Abstract:
The 21st Century Nanotechnology Research and Development Act is five years old and up for re-authorization. Significant progress and maturation in commercialization and organization of the EHS task have set the stage for higher expectations - and another five years of crucial work to contribute to human progress and maintain American economic leadership.
(March 1st, 2008)

Burri, R.; Bellucci, S.
Public perception of nanotechnology
Journal of Nanoparticle Research
Burri, R.; Bellucci, S. Journal of Nanoparticle Research 2008, 10, 387-391.

Harper, S. L.; Dahl, J. A.; Maddux, B. L. S.; Tanguay, R. L.; Hutchison, J. E.
Proactively designing nanomaterials to enhance performance and minimise hazard
International Journal of Nanotechnology
Harper, S. L.; Dahl, J. A.; Maddux, B. L. S.; Tanguay, R. L.; Hutchison, J. E., International Journal of Nanotechnology 2008, 5, 124.

Moss, O. R.
Insights into the health effects of nanoparticles: why numbers matter
International Journal of Nanotechnology
Moss, O. R., International Journal of Nanotechnology 2008, 5, 3.

Roco, M. C.
Possibilities for global governance of converging technologies
Journal of Nanoparticle Research
Roco, M. C., J. Nanopart. Res. 2008, 10, 11.

Tyshenko, M. G.; Krewski, D.
A risk management framework for the regulation of nanomaterials
International Journal of Nanotechnology
Tyshenko, M. G.; Krewski, D., International Journal of Nanotechnology 2008, 5, 143.

Boxall, A. B. A.; Tiede, K.; Chaudhry, Q.
Engineered nanomaterials in soils and water: how do they behave and could they pose a risk to human health?
Nanomedicine
Boxall, A. B. A.; Tiede, K.; Chaudhry, Q. Nanomedicine 2007, 2, 919-927.

February 29, 2008

STATEMENT BY THE UK GOVERNMENT ABOUT NANOTECHNOLOGIES 

NIOSH Publication No. 2008-112:  Safe Nanotechnology in the Workplace
(February 2008) PDF

Which? briefing on Citizens' panel research
27 February 2008
Which? briefing on our research into consumer awareness of nanotechnologies

Citizens' Panel report on nanotechnologies 
27 February 2008
Report on the Citizens' Panel examining nanotechnologies

The Institution of Engineering and Technology
A small matter of life by William Knight
It promises fantastic, revolutionary products and  benefits, but is there something dodgy in the state of nanotechnology? William Knight investigates the hidden hazards of the super-small.February 2008

The March edition of 'Chemistry World' - the  Royal Society of Chemistry's in-house magazine features a handy review of happenings in the world of nanotechnology regulation since the start of 2008.

The NANOFORUMEULA international consortium invites European researchers and industrialists to a Fact Finding mission to nanotechnology research centers in Brazil, 5-10 September 2008 and an international workshop on MEMS/NEMS and Aerospace during the MINAPIM conference in Manaus, 11-13 September 2008 

More information:
http://www.nanoforumeula.eu
http://www.suframa.gov.br/minapim

NanoSafe
What about explosivity and flammability of nanopowders? Dissemination Report (February 2008)

NANOSAFE2 project newsletter - Issue 2

Nanotechnology: An insurer's perspecive - David Baxter, Lloyd's of London (February 26, 2008)

Nature
Nano makes it big
A company in the United States has made a sheet from tiny carbon nanotubes. Nature News finds out whether bigger is better when it comes to the very small.

Victorian Nanotechnology Statement
Taking Leadership in Innovations in Technology  (February 2008)

Md. Bill Would Spur Nano-Biotechnology
Md. Measure Would Set Up Fund to Encourage Nano-Biotechnology
ANNAPOLIS, Md. (AP) -- Hoping to turn the science of the extremely small into a huge payoff down the road, Maryland lawmakers introduced legislation Tuesday to create a fund to coordinate efforts to develop what's known as nano-biotechnology.

Nanotech nightmares
What problems are arising or could arise as a result of nanotechnology? What are the environmental concerns? George A. Kimbrell and Aatish Salvi continue their debate. February 26, 2008

Today, Kimbrell and Salvi weigh the possible drawbacks of nanotechnology. Previously, they defined the scope of nanotechnology. Later in the week, they'll discuss government regulation, the future of nanotech research and more.
 

The Alliance for NanoHealth (ANH) and the Food & Drug Administration (FDA) are co-sponsoring a scientific workshop being held in Houston, Texas on March 10-12th, 2008.
 This workshop, called the FDA-ANH Nanotechnology Initiative Scientific Workshop, is an invitation-only event dedicated to obtaining feedback from stakeholders in an attempt to identify key scientific and translational challenges in nanoengineered medical product development.

Nanotechnology: An insurer's perspecive - David Baxter, Lloyd's of London (February 26, 2008)

February 26, 2008

The Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies (PEN)
Application of the Toxics Release Inventory to Nanomaterials
PEN Brief No. 2 Linda K. Breggin and Read D. Porter
(February 26, 2008)

Nature Nanotechnology, Feb. 2008
Setting the standard
Adarsh Sandhu

Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
Global Partnerships for Chemical Safety
Contributing to the 2020 Goal
5 February 2008 Forum VI
Sixth Session of the Intergovernmental Forum on Chemical Safety
Dakar, Senegal
15 – 19 September 2008
Nanotechnologies at the OECD
Prepared by:  OECD   

The Tower of Nano Babel or How High-Tech Hucksterism Can Hurt Nanotechnology's Future
David Rejeski
Director
Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies
Abstract:
Over the past few years, there has been a lot of discussion about the possible risks associated with nanotechnology, but nobody seems to be doing a reality check on the claims companies are making about nanotechnology's benefits. With close to 600 manufacturer-identified, nano-enabled products on the market, the average consumer has to deal with a growing "Tower of Nano Babel." We desperately need a reality check on...nanotech products flooding the global marketplace to ensure that the next generation of nanotechnology applications builds on a solid foundation of consumer confidence. February 25th, 2008

Schulte,P., Geraci, C., Zumwalde, R., Hoover, M., Kuempel, E. (April 2008). Occupational Risk Management of Engineered Nanoparticles. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 5(4): 239-249. Abstract.

International Symposium on the Risk Assessment of Manufactured Nanomaterials

Burri, R.V., Bellucci, S. (March 2008). Public perception of nanotechnology. Journal of Nanoparticle Research, 10(3): 387-391. (abstract only)

Wynne, J.H., Buckley, J.L. et al. (March 2008). Reducing hazardous material and environmental impact through recycling of scandium nanomaterial waste. Journal of Environmental Science and Health, Part A, 43(4): 357-360. Abstract

Boxall, A.B., Tiede, K., Chaudhry, Q. (December 2007). Engineered nanomaterials in soils and water: How do they behave and could they pose a risk to human health? Nanomedicine, 2(6): 919-927. Abstract.

Environmental Effects of Nanoparticles and Nanomaterials - 3rd International Conference on the Environmental Effects of Nanoparticles and Nanomaterials

Risk assessment of engineered nanomaterials: a survey of industrial approaches.
Environ Sci Technol. 2008 Jan 15; 42(2):640-6. (Abstract)

The Challenge of Regulating Nanomaterials
Rhitu Chatterjee
pp 339 – 343
Vol. 2, Iss. 2 339–43
Environmental Science and Technology

February 21, 2008

Environmental Science and Technology
Risks of nanotechnology remain uncertain
Toxicology experiments on nanomaterials often seem to run the same way: put some nanoparticles, carbon nanotubes, quantum dots, or other kind of nanosized structures in a petri dish, water column, soil sample, or lab test tube of choice. Then expose daphnids, microbes, zebrafish, pig lung cells, human skin cells, or other model organisms to the new and exciting materials. Sit back and see what happens.

Risk, Uncertainty and Decision Analysis for Nanomaterials: Environmental Risks and Benefits and Emerging Consumer Products
27th - 30th April 2008, Portugal

FDA Should Systematically Gather Basic Nanomaterial Information
by John C. Monica, Jr.

The Lowell Center for Sustainable Production at UMass Lowell released "Options for States to Reform Chemicals Policies: A Resource Guide" (January 2008)  Module 7 of the 244-page guide, authored by Steffen Foss Hansen and David Rejeski, deals with nanotechnology: Applying the Chemical Policy Options to Emerging Technologies and Materials: Adaptations and Challenges.

NanoSafe
Safe  production  and use of nanomaterials (February 2008)

Environment Directorate
Joint Meeting of the Chemicals Committee and the Working Party on Chemicals, Pesticides and Biotechnology
Series on the Safety of Manufactured Nanomaterials number 4

February 20, 2008

The European Commission's Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR)
Scientific Committees on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR) Request for Scientific Opinion on Risk Assessment of Products of Nanotechnologies

The Department of Health's Policy Research Programme is currently inviting full proposals for research on nanotoxicology which will lead to an increased understanding of possible human health hazards and of risk assessment.

Scientific American
As Nanotech's Promise Grows, Will Puny Particles Present Big Health Problems?
Amid the great promise nanotechnology offers, big questions remain on health dangers posed by exposure to tissue-penetrating particles (Feb 15, 2008)

February 15, 2008

The Nanoscale Science, Engineering, and Technology (NSET) Subcommittee of the National Science and Technology Council's Committee on Technology
Strategy for Nanotechnology-Related Environmental, Health, and Safety Research (February 14, 2008)

OECD Working Party on Nanotechnology
Second meeting of the Working Party on Nanotechnology
The Working Party on Nanotechnology (WPN) convened at its second meeting 13-16 November 2007 in Paris to finalize work programs for the different projects and move forward especially with the work on statistics and indicators and impacts of nanotechnology on companies and business environments.

 The US National Nanotechnology Initiative
2009 budget projections

Nanotechnology Research Coordination Group (NRCG) meetings Nanotechnology Research Coordination Group (NRCG)  Summary note of the 13th meeting of the Nanotechnologies Research Co-ordination Group

February 14, 2008

COMMISSION RECOMMENDATION  of 07/02/2008 on a code of conduct for responsible nanosciences and nanotechnologies research

Nanotechnology Research Roundtable in Boston Friday, Feb. 15
When: Friday, February 15, 2008, 11 a.m.-12:30 p.m.
Where: Boston Marriott Copley Place, Suffolk Room, 110 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Mass

Research and Markets
NanoSEE 2008
The nanotech industry is moving from research to production with over 500 consumer nano-products already available. Though nanotechnology has long been seen as tomorrows technology, developers of nanoproducts are focused on todays market opportunities. Some previous limitations have been addressed thanks to improvements in the dispersion of nanoparticles and the decrease in the production cost of nanotubes

Nanotechnology solutions for development problems
Small is beautiful?
Nanotechnology promises revolutionary solutions for all kinds of problems. At this early stage it is possible to outline the applications of nanotech that could contribute to development and poverty reduction, and the dilemmas that might emerge. Whether developing countries will really benefit will depend on science and research policies in both the South and the North.

Current Opinion in Biotechnology
Volume 18, Issue 6, December 2007, Pages 565-571
Nanotoxicity: the growing need for in vivo study
Nanotoxicology is emerging as an important subdiscipline of nanotechnology. Nanotoxicology refers to the study of the interactions of nanostructures with biological systems with an emphasis on elucidating the relationship between the physical and chemical properties (e.g. size, shape, surface chemistry, composition, and aggregation) of nanostructures with induction of toxic biological responses. (requires subscription)

Final strategy (in German): Nanotechnologie: Gesundheits- und Umweltrisiken von Nanomaterialien  – Forschungsstrategie –  (December 2007)

MEPs Olle Scmidt and Anders Wijkman are to host a seminar at the European Parliament entitled "Nanotechnology: threat or opportunity?"

NanoforumEULA organises workshop and fact finding mission on Nanotechnology in Brazil in September 2008
NanoforumEULA will organise a workshop on European-Latin American collaboration in nanotechnology on 13 September 2008, during the MINAPIM bi-annual conference on Microsystems and Nanotechnology (11-13 September 2008, Manaus, Brazil).

February, 2008 - Read the Federal Register to learn about EPA's draft Nanotechnology Research Strategy

February 13, 2008

See today's article in Daily Environment Report EU Commission Calls on Member States To Adopt Nanotech Research Guidelines (29 DEN A-5, 02/13/08) (Subscription Required)

DEFRA - Science and Research Projects
Final Report : An Assessment of Regulatory Testing Strategies and Methods for Characterizing the Ecotoxicological Hazards of Nanomaterials (Expanded Report)

EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT
Science and Technology
Options Assessment
S T O A
Interactions between new technologies and the job market, flexicurity and training/vocational training Study

Seminar in the EU parliament: Nanotechnology - threat or opportunity?
(Nanowerk News) On March 5, 2008 the European Parliament in Brussels will be the venue of a seminar titled "Nanotechnology threat or opportunity? Who is really in charge of policy making in cutting edge technology?"
More details and agenda
Download registration form 

An overview of European nanotechnology research addressing health and environmental impact of nanoparticles

The Future of NanoEnergy
Thursday, February 28, 2008
Registration: 18:30-19:00, Conference: 19:00-21:15

February 8, 2008

European Commission adopts Code of Conduct for Responsible Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies Research
(Feb 8 2008)

The MONA (“Merging Optics and Nanotechnologies”) consortium
A European roadmap for photonics and nanotechnologies
(February 2008)

Call for Scientific Data on Applications of Nanotechnology and Nanomaterials used in Food and Feed Deadline  28/03/2008

Nano Safety for Success Dialogue
Presentations, photos and a report from the 'Nano - Safety for Success Dialogue' are now available on the EC's DG Health and Consumer Protection Risk Assessment pages

February 7, 2008

Regulating Nanotechnologies in the EU and US Towards Effectiveness and Convergence
Regulating Nanotechnologies in the EU and US is a collaborative research project involving researchers from LSE, Chatham House, Environmental Law Institute and The Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars. Its goal is to investigate the regulatory challenges posed by nanotechnologies and to assess the effectiveness of existing approaches on both sides of the Atlantic. The project is innovative in taking a comparative perspective and in contributing to the early identification of regulatory methodologies and best practices that promote regulatory harmonization between the EU and US.

Faunce, T. A.
Nanotechnology in global medicine and human biosecurity: Private interests, policy dilemmas, and the calibration of public health law
Journal of Law Medicine & Ethics
Faunce, T. A., Journal of Law Medicine & Ethics 2007, 35, 629.
(Abstract Only)

Nanoparticle safety raises questions

Biased Assimilation, Polarization, and Cultural Credibility: An Experimental Study of Nanotechnology Risk Perceptions
Dan M. Kahan, Paul Slovic, Donald Braman, John Gastil, Geoffrey Cohen, Douglas Kysar

February 5, 2008

Tantra R., Cumpson, P. (December 2007). The detection of airborne carbon nanotubes in relation to toxicology and workplace safety. Nanotoxicology, 1(4): 251 - 265. (abstract)

Andrew Maynard
Labels of contention  
Labelling – is there anything more contentious in the safe nanotech debate?  Some are fearful that too much knowledge will confuse and worry muddle-headed consumers.  Others can only see the marketing opportunities of a “nano-inside” label. Then you have the nano-doomsday merchants, who seemingly would like nothing better than to slap a bright yellow nano-hazard sticker on all things small.

Achieving the balance between public awareness and Nano hype - The launch of Tata Nano

The detection of carbon nanotubes and workplace safety
(Nanowerk Spotlight) More and more carbon nanotube (CNT) applications are moving from the research lab into commercial products. For example, CNTs can be found already in tennis rackets and bicycles, displays and TV screens, and numerous resins used by aerospace, defense, health care, and electronics companies. Not surprisingly, CNT production is growing by hundreds of metric tons a year. One of the large suppliers alone, Bayer, is talking about having 3,000 metric tons of production capacity in place by 2012. As a result of the increasing supply, prices are dropping fast. While a kilogram of multi-walled CNTs (MWCNTs) sold for tens of thousands of dollars just a few years ago (and single-walled CNTs still do), the price for some types of MWCNTs has fallen to hundreds of dollars per kg. Recent market analyses forecast sales of all nanotubes to reach $1 billion to $2 billion annually within the next four to seven years. In terms of dollar value, electronics devices will be the largest end-use category, although composite materials in automotive applications may account for greater volumes. These volumes are expected to approach several thousand metric tons per year. This means that the exposure to CNTs, especially by factory workers, will increase substantially over the next few years. Since the jury is still out as to the toxicity of nanotubes it appears prudent to at least develop suitable sensor technology to detect CNTs, especially in the workplace.

EPA's FY 2009 Budget Focuses on Next Phase of Environmental Progress Release date: 02/04/2008

CRS Report
Engineered Nanoscale Materials and Derivative Products: Regulatory Challenges (January 22, 2008)

February 4, 2008

Official Journal of the European Union
COUNCIL REGULATION (EC) No 72/2008 of 20 December 2007 setting up the ENIAC Joint Undertaking

February 1, 2008

NanoSafe
Are conventional protective devices such as fibrous filter media, respirator cartridges, protective clothing and gloves also efficient for nanoaerosols? (January 31, 2008)

On the impacts of nanotechnology
Barry Castleman, an environmental consultant and expert on workplace health hazards, tells Arnab Pratim Dutta about nanotechnology’s impacts

International Center For Technology Assessment (CTA)
Principles for the Oversight of Nanotechnologies and Nanomaterials 01/31/2008 

Final Report : An Assessment of Regulatory Testing Strategies and Methods for Characterizing the Ecotoxicological Hazards of Nanomaterials (Expanded Report)

Conferences
2nd National Conference on Nanotechnology "NANO 2008"
Web site 
When 25–28 Jun 2008
Where Krakow, Poland

Greener Nano 2008 Conference
Web site
When 10–11 Mar 2008
Where Corvallis, Oregon, United States

January 29, 2008

Approaches to Safe Nanotechnology: An Information Exchange with NIOSH SUPPORTING & RELATED MATERIALS

TSCA Inventory Status of Nanoscale Substances - General Approach

EU nanotechnology R&D in the field of health and environmental impact of 
Nanoparticles (January 28, 2008)

Andrew Maynard
Overseeing nanotechnology development
If you’ve ever wondered how to deal with the complexities of regulating a twenty first century technology like nanotechnology, wonder no more.  Last week, President Bush’s top advisors on science and the environment published a set of “principles for nanotechnology environment, health and safety oversight”.

Andrew Maynard
Synthetic biology and nanotechnology
The popular computer game “SimLife” allows users to create and manipulate virtual people.  But what are the chances of us one day being able to do the same with real organisms: building new life-forms out of basic chemicals, so “SimLife” becomes “SynLife”?

The World Economic Forum
"Global Risks 2008" (January 2008)

January 25, 2008

A revised request for by the European Commission to have the European Food Safety Authority provide an initial scientific opinion on the risks arising from nanoscience and nanotechnologies on food and feed safety and the environment, was recently posted online by the Food Safety Authority.

The request will be handled by the EFSA Scientific Committee who in November appointed a working group composed of 15 experts to prepare a draft opinion

Request of the European Commission for an initial scientific opinion

EFSA’s initial response to the Commission’s request for an opinion

EFSA’s acceptance letter to the Commission’s request for an opinion

Revised request of the European Commission for an initial scientific opinion (15/01/2008)

BASF
Nanotechnology and Safety

Chatterjee, R. (January 2008). The Challenge of Regulating Nanomaterials Environmental Science & Technology, 42(2): 339–343. 
Article

Tyshenko, M.G. and Krewski, D. (2008). A risk management framework for the regulation of nanomaterials. International Journal of Nanotechnology, 5(1): 143-160. Abstract

Center for High-Rate Nanomanufacturing. (November 2007). Interim Best Practices for Working with Nanoparticles. Draft Document

The Strategic Risk of Nanotechnology (January 23rd, 2008)
There has been much talk and hand-wringing about health and environmental risks associated with nanotechnology, but fewer discussions focus on what is termed "strategic risk." One definition of strategic risk, from a recent Ernst & Young report, is "[a] risk that could cause severe financial loss or fundamentally undermine the competitive position of a company" (1). Regulators and NGOs pay attention to health risks, but strategic risks are the bread-and-butter of investors, insurers, Wall Street analysts, and corporate boards. The insurance sector has been very clear that it views nanotechnology as a looming issue. Lloyd's Emerging Risks Team just issued a report on nano that noted that "due to the potential impact to the insurance industry if something were to go wrong, nanotechnology features very highly in Lloyd's top emerging risks" (2). Similarly, Zurich Insurance's Canadian office ranked nano in the top tier of emerging global risks (along with climate change and deteriorating infrastructure) (3).

Deloitte Touche Tohmatsu (DTT) has published its 2008 Technology Predictions. The study examines 10 emerging trends sure to have a major influence on the technology sector. The report, which is available as a free download.

January 23, 2008

DEFRA

Final Report : An Assessment of Regulatory Testing Strategies and Methods for Characterizing the Ecotoxicological Hazards of Nanomaterials (Expanded Report)   (973k)
• Final Report : An Assessment of Regulatory Testing Strategies and Methods for Characterizing the Ecotoxicological Hazards of Nanomaterials

The New South Wales Legislative Council's Standing Committee on State Development is this week beginning an enquiry into the current and potential future applications of nanotechnology in New South Wales, Australia, The enquiry is also to examine the environmental, health, regulatory and education implications this may have.

The Committee is inviting members of the public to participate in the process - written submissions can be logged via the Committee's website

“Blacklist” of Nanoproducts to Appear
Russian state authorities consider majority of products, carrying “nano” prefix, to speculate on a trendy term.

Nanotoxicity: the growing need for in vivo study
Hans C Fischer1, 2 and Warren CW Chan1, 2,
1Institute of Biomaterials and Biomedical Engineering, Terrence Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
2Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada

January 16, 2008

Environmental Science and Technology
The Challenge of Regulating Nanomaterials
As the nanotechnology industry thunders ahead, filling consumer products with nanomaterials, experts worry about the lack of adequate oversight and regulation.
Vol. 42, Iss. 2 339–343

Roco, M. C.
Possibilities for global governance of converging technologies
Journal of Nanoparticle Research
Roco, M. C., J. Nanopart. Res. 2008, 10, 11. (Abstract only)

Nature Nanotechnology 3, 12 - 13 (2008)
doi:10.1038/nnano.2007.433
Nanomedicine: Sizing up targets with nanoparticles
Rod Minchin1  r.minchin@uq.edu.au
Rod Minchin is at the Centre for Preclinical Drug Development and the School of Biomedical Sciences, University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia.

Nanoparticles have many potential medical applications but their behaviour in the body is poorly understood. New studies in mice show that particles that don't have targeting molecules attached can selectively enter certain organs solely on the basis of their charge and size.

EPA

Proceedings of the Interagency Workshop on the Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology (PDF)
(184 pp, 8.09 MB) - September 5 - September 7, 2007, The "Interagency Workshop on the Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology" features presentations by EPA STAR, NSF, NIEHS, and NIOSH grant researchers who will discuss the latest science related to the potential effects of nanotechnology on human health and the environment.

Consultation on nanotechnology for healthcare
We are planning to issue a call for proposals for large-scale integrated projects within the strategic theme of nanotechnology for healthcare in the summer of 2008.  Healthcare covered by this call is meant in its broadest sense, for example including nanomedicine, nanotechnology for diagnostics and nanotechnology enabled devices for drug discovery.

Funding research to answer the big questions
11 December 2007
Plans to invest almost £1.3 billion into research aimed at meeting the key challenges facing the nation were outlined today by John Denham, Secretary of State for Innovation, Universities and Skills (DIUS).

Andrew Maynard
Nanotechnology: The cause, the cure, and the spin-off product
What do Alzheimers and body armour have in common?  The answer could lie in the structures formed when proteins self-assemble at the nanoscale.    

TSCA and Engineered NanoScale Substances
by Lynn L. Bergeson & Ira Dassa* Sustainable Development Law & Policy (Fall 2007)

January 11, 2008

Existing regulations are sufficient to address risks that may be posed by nanomaterials, the Danish government concludes in a newly released report with an English summary.

Danish nanotechnology safety report (with English summary) (December 2007)

Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology
What do we (need to) know about the kinetic properties of nanoparticles in the body?
Pages 217-229
Werner I. Hagens, Agnes G. Oomen, Wim H. de Jong, Flemming R. Cassee and Adriënne J.A.M. Sips
Volume 49, Issue 3, December 2007, Pages 217-229 (Abstract Only)

Environmental Pollution
Review
Occurrence, behavior and effects of nanoparticles in the environment
Bernd Nowacka, and Thomas D. Buchelib
Technology and Society Laboratory, Empa – Materials Science and Technology, Lerchenfeldstrasse 5, CH-9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
Agroscope Reckenholz Tänikon, Research Station ART, Reckenholzstrasse 191, CH-8046 Zurich, Switzerland
Received 1 June 2007;  accepted 3 June 2007.  Available online 20 July 2007.Volume 150, Issue 1, November 2007, Pages 5-22

Voluntary Reporting Scheme for engineered nanoscale materials
The Voluntary Reporting Scheme is for industry and research organisations to provide Government with information relevant to understanding the potential risks posed by free engineered nanoscale materials. The scheme is voluntary and will not replace existing legislation. It is intended to run from September 2006 to September 2008. The scheme was subject to a full public consultation.

January 10, 2008

European Union
EU Policy for Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies

SAFENANO officially launches SAFENANO Scientific Services
09/01/2008
Complementing the IOM's SAFENANO Information Service and Community Portal, SAFENANO Scientific Services will provide companies operating in the nanotechnology industry with a multidisciplinary range of solutions to ensure they can offer employees a safe and healthy working environment and end products that are safe for customers.

International Journal of Nanotechnology (IJNT)
Volume 5 - Issue 1 - 2008
Special Issue on Nanotoxicity
Guest Editors: S.K. Sundaram and T.J. Weber

Insights into the health effects of nanoparticles: why numbers matter
Owen R. Moss
International Journal of Nanotechnology 2008 - Vol. 5, No.1  pp. 3 - 14
We find that nanoparticle numbers do matter when estimating risk. Previous reports by others establish that particle surface area is related to changes in biological function of exposed cells. Many of these reports describe the impact of particle surface area on the alveolar macrophage (the primary cell involved in the clearance of particles deposited in the gas exchange region of the lung). For these cells, the change in function is indicated by a decrease in the macrophage's ability to clear particles. However, when macrophages are exposed to nanoparticles, this change in function may not be strictly due to surface chemistry: Instead, the cumulative projected area of the particles may reflect the degree to which the inner or outer surface of the macrophage is shielded from other objects or molecules. We apply this alternative interpretation to in vitro measurements of macrophage uptake of 26 nm diameter fluorescent beads and to in vivo data presented for TiO2 nanoparticles. We show that the observed decrease in macrophage-mediated alveolar clearance of polystyrene test particles can be directly related to the potential for TiO2 particles to mask the surface of the macrophage. We further confirm this observation by a series of confocal laser scanning microscopy in vitro studies. Both nanoparticle number and surface area are relevant; they help predict the potential for obstruction of molecular mechanisms. (Abstract Only)

Medical nanotechnology using genetic material and the need for precaution in design and risk assessments
Michael G. Tyshenko
 International Journal of Nanotechnology 2008 - Vol. 5, No.1  pp. 116 - 123
As a new field of research, medical nanotechnology promises a suite of potential applications for drug delivery, diagnostics and gene therapy. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) is ideal at the nanoscale for use as a backbone when making scaffolded structures and more complex dendrimer constructions owing to its properties as a rigid, linear molecule. Much attention has focused on benefits from scaffolded nanoscale constructs but little has been mentioned about the risks associated with such material once inside the human body. The public is starting to focus on the health impacts of nanotechnology including the toxic effects of nanoparticles to living systems. Even though degraded nano-scale genetic material is unlikely to present any significant problems when used therapeutically, the potential risks may be avoided by using bioinformatics database resources when designing these kinds of nanotechnology-based therapeutics. (Abstract Only)

Proactively designing nanomaterials to enhance performance and minimise hazard
Stacey L. Harper, Jennifer A. Dahl, Bettye L.S. Maddux, Robert L. Tanguay, James E. Hutchison
International Journal of Nanotechnology 2008 - Vol. 5, No.1  pp. 124 - 142
The innovative field of nanotechnology is most likely to benefit society and gain acceptance if environmental and human health considerations are investigated systematically, and those results are used to optimise safety as well as performance. Since nanotechnology fundamentally allows manipulation of matter at the atomic level, toxic interactions could potentially be eliminated by creative design once our knowledge of how nanomaterials interact with biological systems is sufficient. Our approach to the development of benign nanoparticles begins with the synthesis of precisely engineered, high-purity nanoparticle libraries using the principles of green chemistry. Next, evaluations for biocompatibility are performed using a rapid in vivo system (embryonic zebrafish) to assess the biological activity and toxic potential of nanomaterials at multiple levels of biological organisation (i.e., molecular, cellular, systems, organismal). Our iterative testing and redesign strategy utilises information gained from the biological studies to inform the nanomaterial design process until benign products and processes are identified. To make this information more generally available, a knowledgebase of Nanomaterial-Biological Interactions (NBI) is being developed that will offer industry, academia and regulatory agencies a mechanism to rationally inquire for unbiased interpretation of nanomaterial exposure effects in biological systems. Timely evaluation and dissemination of information on nanomaterial-biological interactions will provide much needed data, improve public trust of the nanotechnology industry, and provide nanomaterial designers in academia and industry with information to direct the development of safer nanomaterials and resulting technologies. (Abstract Only)

A risk management framework for the regulation of nanomaterials
Michael G. Tyshenko, Daniel Krewski
International Journal of Nanotechnology 2008 - Vol. 5, No.1  pp. 143 - 160
Nanotechnology promises a plethora of benefits to society. Early research has established that some types of nanomaterials may be highly toxic to living systems, while others are seemingly inert. Nanotoxicology is a new field that has become the focus for risk assessment and management of nanomaterials. To address the potential risks either current chemical and particulate material regulations need to be modified to encompass the uniqueness of nanomaterial exposure or nanomaterials should be regulated as an entirely separate category of environmental agent. Policy makers in different jurisdictions are already formulating new risk management frameworks for nanotoxicology. A review of risk management frameworks reveals similarities and differences between the largest funders of nanotechnology (the USA, the European Union, and Japan). The use of a common, integrated risk management framework of the type proposed here will help reduce future trade barriers that may arise from differential nanotoxicity derived standards and variable nanotoxicology research results. (Abstract Only)

Somasundaran, P.; Mehta, S. C.; Rhein, L.; Chakraborty, S.
Nanotechnology and related safety issues of or delivery of active ingredients in cosmetics
Mrs Bulletin
Somasundaran, P.; Mehta, S. C.; Rhein, L.; Chakraborty, S., MRS Bull. 2007, 32, 779.
Abstract
Nature exhibits a variety of remarkable phenomena that are useful but difficult to imitate in real life. Examples are the “touch me not” plant (Mimosa pudica), which folds up upon being attacked, or microbes that deposit on ocean vessels even under hostile conditions. Understanding the mechanisms governing these phenomena can prove powerful for developing new classes of cosmetic products. This article examines the development of novel materials with functional properties such as controlled delivery and the deposition of sensory attributes (fragrances, flavors, etc.) desirable in cosmetic products. Particularly, systems based on polymer/surfactant chemistry are explored for achieving transport and release of cosmetic and pharmaceutical molecules at desired rates. The hybrid polymers and nanogel particle systems discussed here represent new classes of materials with nanodomains that can be tuned to extract and deliver cosmetic attributes by means of changes in natural parameters such as temperature and pH. While the safety of existing nanomaterials marketed for decades has not been an issue, methods are urgently needed to validate the toxicological safety of future nanomaterials. (Abstract Only)

January 9, 2008

A Wisconsin legislator is proposing to create a reporting and registry program for nanomaterials in the state.

NIST reference materials are 'gold standard' for bio-nanotech research
The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has issued its first reference standards for nanoscale particles targeted for the biomedical research community—literally “gold standards” for labs studying the biological effects of nanoparticles. The three new materials, gold spheres nominally 10, 30 and 60 nanometers in diameter, were developed in cooperation with the National Cancer Institute’s Nanotechnology Characterization Laboratory (NCL).

Savage, N; Thomas, TA; Duncan, JS. (2007). Nanotechnology applications and implications research supported by the US Environmental Protection Agency STAR grants program. Journal of environmental monitoring, 9 (10): 1046-1054. Abstract. http://www.rsc.org/publishing/journals/EM/article.asp?doi=b704002d

EUROPEAN PARLIAMENT -Scientific Technology Options Assessment
Policy options for the improvement of the European patent system 
(IP/A/STOA/FWC/2005-28/SC16) Manuscript completed in September 2007.

A collaboration agreement was signed today between the JRC Institute for Reference Materials and Measurements and the Chemical Science and Technology Laboratory (CSTL) of the National Institute of Standards and Technology (USA) in Geel, Belgium. The agreement will advance the development and availability of international measurement standards in the fields of chemistry, life sciences, and emerging technologies. Press release

Federal Institute for Occupational Health and Safety (BAuA) and the Association of the Chemical Industry (VCI)
Exposure to nanomaterials in Germany – Corporate survey of the Federal Institute for Occupational Health and Safety (BAuA) and the Association of the Chemical Industry (VCI) using questionnaires

List of activities
In the FP7 calls for proposals of 2008 of direct relevance to Nanotechnology

ONAMI and SNNI (Safer Nanomaterials and Nanomanufacting Initiative) present the Greener Nano 2008 Conference: Nanoscience for a Sustainable Future, 10-11 March 2008 at the Hewlett-Packard Company Corvallis, OR site. As nanotechnology advances, many questions arise regarding putative effects of engineered nanomaterials on the environment and health. How do we make the right decisions in the face of these uncertainties?

The Center on Institutions and Governance is organizing an innovative scholarly task force that will explore the relationship between the regulatory policies of California and the European Union. Both the EU at the global level and California at the national level have emerged as regulatory policy leaders. This project will promote additional opportunities for regulatory cooperation, learning, and emulation between California and the EU. It will also provide opportunities for interaction among academics, activists, business managers and policy-makers on both sides of the Atlantic.

Nanotechnology in California and the EU
Margaret Taylor
Javiera Barandiaran
Goldman School of Public Policy, UC Berkeley
There will be a seminar focused on this project at the UC Berkeley Faculty Club's Seaborg Room on February 22-23, 2008. (Note: page down to the author's entry)

Risk Assessment of Engineered Nanomaterials: A Survey of Industrial Approaches Helland, A.; Scheringer, M.; Siegrist, M.; Kastenholz, H. G.; Wiek, A.; Scholz, R. W. Environ. Sci. Technol.; 2007; ASAP Article;  DOI:

National Science Foundation Solicitation
This solicitation requests proposals to create a national Center to conduct fundamental research and education on the implications of nanotechnology for the environment and living systems at all scales. The
Center will address interactions of naturally derived, incidental and engineered nanoparticles and nanostructured materials, devices and systems (herein called nanomaterials) with the living world. Essential elements of this Center will include understanding the interactions of nanomaterials with organisms, cellular constituents, metabolic networks and living tissues; understanding environmental exposure and bioaccumulation and their effects on living systems; and determining the biological impacts of nanomaterials dispersed in the environment. Additional elements of the Center may include the development of methods and instrumentation for the detection and characterization of nanomaterials. For the purpose of this solicitation, nanomaterials have at least one dimension with a length of approximately 1 to 100 nm. A multidisciplinary research approach involving the biological, chemical, physical, computational, mathematical, social and behavioral sciences will be needed to understand the fundamental processes associated with the interaction of nanomaterials with the environment and living systems. This Center is expected to interact with other Nanotechnology Science and Engineering Centers as appropriate.

The International Conference on Nanomaterial Toxicology
is being organized jointly by the ‘Industrial Toxicology Research Centre' and the ‘Indian Nanoscience Society'.   The conference will be a platform for researchers and industry alike to interact with eminent scientists in the area of nanotechnology for open exchange of ideas and presentation of exciting scientific results.
Industrial Toxicology Research Centre                     
PO Box 80, M.G. Marg, Lucknow - 226 001, India
February 5 - 7, 2008  

nanoECO
March 2-7 2008
Monte Verita, Switzerland
This conference aims to bring together researchers working in the field of nanoparticles and the environment to present, discuss and review the data existing on applications and behaviour of nanoparticles in the environment.

Ethical aspects of nanotechnology in medicine
Nanowerk Spotlight) For centuries, man has searched for miracle cures to end suffering caused by disease and injury.

How Meaningful are the Results of Nanotoxicity Studies in the Absence of Adequate Material Characterization?
Toxicological Sciences 2008 101(2):183-185; doi:10.1093/toxsci/kfm279

January 7, 2008

Nanotechnology in Argentina
Report of a Fact Finding Mission to San Carlos de Bariloche and Buenos Aires,
19-23 November 2007
Malsch TechnoValuation

NanoGovernance
Sponsored by The George Washington University Law School, Porter Wright Morris & Arthur LLP, and the Environmental Law Institute

February 12, 2008  –  Washington, D.C.
Nanogovernance 2008: Innovative Approaches to Nanotechnology Environmental Governance will be held on February 12, 2008 from 8:30 a.m. until 4:00 p.m. at The George Washington University Law School, 2000 H Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20052, (202) 994-6261.  As you enter the Law School, please look for signs to the conference which is being held in Jacob Burns Moot Court Room on the first floor. 

January 3, 2008

The National Nanotechnology Initiative
Strategic Plan (December 2007)

Lloyds
Risks: Lloyd’s Emerging Risks Team Report; Nanotechnology, Recent Developments, Risks, and Opportunities (December 2007)

Nowack, B; Bucheli, TD. (November 2007). Occurrence, behavior and effects of nanoparticles in the environment. Environmental pollution, 150 (1): 5-22 Requires subscription ( Abstract only)

Nanotechnology Update for IHs: Toxicology and Exposure Assessment Issues
January 31, 2008
2:00-4:30 p.m. ET

December 21, 2007

Council Conclusions on Environment and Health  
2842nd ENVIRONMENT Council meeting
Brussels, 20 December 2007

Hansen, S. F.; Tickner, J. A.
The Challenges of Adopting Voluntary Health, Safety and Environment Measures for Manufactured Nanomaterials: Lessons From the Past For More Effective Adoption in the Future
Nanotechnology Law & Business
Hansen, S. F.; Tickner, J. A., Nanotechnology Law & Business 2007, 4.

December 20, 2007

Council of the European Union
COUNCIL REGULATION setting up the "ENIAC Joint Undertaking" (December 19, 2007)

OFFICE OF SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY POLICY
Meeting of the President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology
ACTION: Notice of meeting.

SUMMARY: This notice sets forth the schedule and summary agenda for a
meeting of the President's Council of Advisors on Science and
Technology (PCAST), and describes the functions of the Council. Notice
of this meeting is required under the Federal Advisory Committee Act
(FACA).
    Dates and Place: January 8, 2008, Washington, DC. The meeting will
be held in Room 100 at the Keck Center of the National Academies at 500
5th St. NW., Washington DC.
    Type of Meeting: Open. Further details on the meeting agenda will
be posted on the PCAST Web site.

December 19, 2007

Department for Environment, Food And Rural Affairs (National)
Government reviews and updates its research agenda to characterise potential risks of nanomaterials
Environment Minister Phil Woolas today urged the UK research community and the nanotechnology industry to fill the gaps in our understanding of the potential risks posed by nanomaterials so that the public can have confidence in the safety of products.

Characterising the potential risks posed by engineered nanoparticles: a Second Government Research Report was produced by the NRCG, a consortium of Government Departments, Agencies and the Research Councils, chaired by Defra.

Covering letter
Associated news release 

December 17, 2007

Luo, J. (2007). Toxicity and Bioaccumulation of Nanomaterial in Aquatic Species. Journal of the U.S. SJWP.

NanotechnologyTown Hall Meetings
Nanotechnology has been heralded as having the potential to lead to the next industrial revolution. But, what is nanotechnology? What are the possible applications and how might it impact our world?
Learn more about this exciting new arena from some of the leaders in the field at the public Nanotechnology Town Hall Meetings sponsored by the International Institute for Nanotechnology and the Northwestern University Nanoscale Science and Engineering Center and Center for Cancer Nanotechnology Excellence.

Nanotechnology Town Hall Meeting I Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Northwestern University
Lurie Building, Hughes Auditorium
303 E. Superior
Chicago, IL
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Guest Speaker: Professor Chad A. Mirkin
George B. Rathmann Professor of Chemistry
Professor of Medicine and Professor of Materials Science and Engineering
Director of the International Institute for Nanotechnology

Nanotechnology Town Hall Meeting II
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
McCormick Tribune Center (Forum)
1870 Campus Drive
Evanston, IL
4:30 pm – 6:30 pm
Guest Speaker: Professor Mark Ratner
Lawrence B. Dumas Distinguished University Professor
Professor of Chemistry
Director, Center for Nanofabrication and Molecular Self-Assembly

NanoLawReport – November 2007

Englert, B. C.
Nanomaterials and the environment: uses, methods and measurement
Journal of Environmental Monitoring, Englert, B. C., Journal of Environmental Monitoring 2007, 9, 1154.  (Abstract only)

December 14, 2007

ASAP Environ. Sci. Technol., ASAP Article, 10.1021/es062807i
Web Release Date: December 14, 2007
Copyright © 2007 American Chemical Society
Risk Assessment of Engineered Nanomaterials: A Survey of Industrial Approaches (Abstract only)

NIOSH
NIOSH Update: NIOSH Offers Interim Guidance on Medical Screening of Workers Pontentially Exposed to Engineered Nanoparticles  

Draft Document for Public Review and Comment: Interim Guidance on Medical Screening of Workers Potentially Exposed to Engineered Nanoparticles Docket # NIOSH-115, December 2007

QuantumSphere
NIOSH Nanotechnology Field Study Report for QuantumSphere

Categorization framework to aid hazard identification of nanomaterials Nanotoxicology, Volume 1, Issue 3 September 2007 , pages 243 - 250 (Abstract only)

Jennifer Sass's Blog
Nano overview
NRDC proposes a three-part framework for regulating nanomaterials based on a precautionary approach to managing toxic chemicals

December 12, 2007

Hansen, S.F., Larsen, B.H., Olsen, S.I., Baun, A. (September 2007). Categorization framework to aid hazard identification of nanomaterials. Nanotoxicology, 1(3): 243-250

Royal Society of Chemistry
Sustainable Water: Chemical Science Priorities Summary Report
This document is a summary of the key findings and the report's recommendations.

A Survey of Environmental, Health and Safety Risk Management Information Needs and Practices among Nanotechnology Firms in the Massachusetts Region

The nonprofit Center for Responsible Nanotechnology (CRN) has released a series of scenarios depicting various versions of a near-future world into which transformative manufacturing concepts may emerge. Across eight separate storylines, an international team of policy, technology, and economic specialists organized by CRN imagined in detail a range of plausible, challenging events – from pandemics to climate crises to international conflicts – to see how they might affect the development of advanced nanotechnology over the next 15 years.

12/18/2007 - Nanotechnology & the Media: The Inside Story
Is media coverage of nanotechnology’s potential risks growing? If so, who or what is driving articles in national newspapers and newswires—environmental and consumer organizations, scientists, law makers, or industrial and financial groups? How do broadcast journalists decide to cover a nanotechnology story, especially one about possible risk-benefit tradeoffs?
Tuesday December 18, 2007 • 1:00 – 2:00 PM (lunch available at 12:30) • Woodrow Wilson Center • 5th Floor Conference Room
RSVP Required (No response required for webcast) Acceptances to nano@wilsoncenter.org.

BCC Research
2007 Nanotechnology Research Review  (requires purchase) but includes table of contents

Broad International Coalition Issues Urgent Call For Strong Oversight of Nanotechnology
Over Forty Groups Release Fundamental Principles for Nanotech Oversight, Citing Risks to the Public, Workers, and the Environment
Washington, DC -- With the joint release today of Principles for the Oversight of Nanotechnologies and Nanomaterials, a broad international coalition of consumer, public health, environmental, labor, and civil society organizations spanning six continents called for strong, comprehensive oversight of the new technology and its products.  

December 11, 2007

Stern, S.T. and McNeil, S.E. (2008). Nanotechnology Safety Concerns Revisited. Toxicological Sciences, 101(1):4-21. Abstract

BAuA (German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health).
Working Programme 2007-2010 for safe, healthy and competitive workplaces. Report. (2007).

Nano Lett., ASAP Article 10.1021/nl071303v S1530-6984(07)01303-3
Web Release Date: November 29, 2007
Copyright © 2007 American Chemical Society
DNA Damage Induced by Multiwalled Carbon Nanotubes in Mouse Embryonic Stem Cells
Lin Zhu, Dong Wook Chang, Liming Dai,* and Yiling Hong*
Department of Biology, Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, University of Dayton, Dayton, Ohio45469
Received June 1, 2007
Revised August 7, 2007
Abstract:
Carbon nanotubes (CNTs) have shown promise as an important new class of multifunctional building blocks and innovative tools in a large variety of applications, ranging from nanocomposite materials through nanoelectronics to biomedical devices.

December 10, 2007

Englert, B.C. (2007). Nanomaterials and the environment: uses, methods and measurement. J. Environ. Monit., 9: 1154-1161.  (abstract)
Requires Subscription

OECD. (August 2007). Current Developments/Activities on the Safety of Manufactured Nanomaterials.
ENVIRONMENT DIRECTORATE - JOINT MEETING OF THE CHEMICALS COMMITTEE AND ENV/JM/MONO(2007)16 Unclassified
 THE WORKING PARTY ON CHEMICALS, PESTICIDES AND BIOTECHNOLOGY CURRENT DEVELOPMENTS/ ACTIVITIES ON THE SAFETY OF MANUFACTURED  NANOMATERIALS/ NANOTECHNOLOGIES
 Tour de Table at the 2nd Meeting of the Working Party on Manufactured Nanomaterials 

Thoughts on the Topic: Security and Nanotechnology
"Anything that makes money under the rubric of nanotechnology is nanotechnology." Suchan Chae, Associate Professor of Economics, Rice University. This quote is significant because it underscores what is becoming a driving force in the rapid evolution and commercialization of things nanotechnology - Speed to Market. This being the case, Nanotechnology Security may be compromised in the process.

December 7, 2007

FDLI's 1st Annual Conference on Nanotechnology Law, Regulation and
Policy, February 28-29, 2008, at the L'Enfant Plaza Hotel, in Washington,
D.C., food and drug industry representatives also will find out what's
happening internationally on nanotech regulation, how venture capitalists
look at the future of nanotechnology and what the leading corporations,
scientific laboratories and academic centers are focusing on in this
dynamic field.

Jennifer Sass's Blog
Voluntary management of nano risks likely to fail
“With great power must also come great responsibility”, warned Spiderman’s uncle (Stan Lee, 1962). Nanotechnologies offer a great power, and obligates a great responsibility. It promises to revolutionize every sector of our economy, from things as important as cancer therapies, as exciting as elevators to space, and as mundane as stain-free neckties. Nanotechnologies are not new, but our ability to manipulate materials at the nano-scale so precisely is new, and ushers in a new wave of nano-enabled scientific advancements.

December 6, 2007

Competitiveness Council
Draft Council conclusions on nanosciences and nanotechnologies
Delegations will find attached the text of the Council conclusions as adopted by the Competitiveness Council on 23 November 2007.

NanoShow - upcoming nanotechnology presentations in Second Life's NanoLands
(Nanowerk News) The UK's National Physical Laboratory (NPL) has launched NanoLands in the virtual world of Second Life - a place where nano science and technology communities come together to exchange ideas and knowledge. The NanoShow is a bimonthly global seminar series. Here are the details of the first seminar:
Title: Nanotechnologies: Opportunities and Threats
Abstract: Nanotechnologies hold out the promise of major breakthroughs in healthcare, electronics, environmental protection, security - and many more - and are already delivering. But are these benefits out-weighed by potential concerns?
Presenter: Dr Kamal Hossain, Director of Research and International Cooperation, NPL, UK
Date: 11th December 2007
Time: 5pm GMT, 9am Second Life time (Pacific Time)

Location: Second Life – NanoLands Auditorium on Nanotechnology Island
To participate in this event:
If you are already a Second Life member, click here to teleport to the NanoLands Auditorium.
If you have not used Second Life before but would like to participate in the event virtually, please follow these instructions:

1. Register for free – Complete this registration form to create an account
2. Download Second Life – Login, select an avatar and begin the virtual experience
3. Take the tour – When you arrive in Second Life you can take a 10-minute orientation tour to take you through some basic training.
4. Participate – At the end of the orientation path, there is a sign that says “Visit Nanotechnology Island! Click Here.” Click that sign and keep the landmark that it gives to you. Click “Teleport” on the landmark window. You will teleport to the foyer on Nanotechnology Island. The event is at the outdoor theatre. To get there, just walk outside, turn left, and walk along the path until you reach the theatre. Take a seat and join the discussion!

Future Nanoshow Presentations
Presenter: Dr JT Janssen, Knowledge Leader, Time, Quantum & Electromagnetics, NPL, UK; Date: 18th December 2007; Time: 6pm GMT, 10am Second Life time (Pacific Time); Location: NanoLands in Second Life and NPL Auditorium, Teddington
Title: Metrology: A Tool to Enable Micro- to Nanotechonology; Presenter: Dr Richard Leach, Principal Research Scientist - Mass & Dimensional, NPL, UK; Date: 15th January 2008; Time: 6pm GMT, 10am Second Life time (Pacific Time); Location: NanoLands in Second Life and NPL Auditorium, Teddington
Title: Metrology and standardisation: supporting growth in nanoproduction; Presenter: Prof. Leslie Pendrill, Head of Research, Measurement Technology, SP Technical Research Institute of Sweden; Date: 29th January 2008; Time: 6pm GMT, 10am Second Life time (Pacific Time); Location: NanoLands in Second Life and NPL Auditorium, Teddington

December 5, 2007

Australia and New Zealand are analyzing the potential implications of nanotechnology on the food supply chain, according to this commentary by Steve McCutcheon the new CEO of Food Standards Austratlia, New Zealand.

9th Annual Food Regulation and Labelling Standards Conference Setting the standards: the FSANZ perspective Steve McCutcheon CEO Food Standards Australia New Zealand

Nanotechnology – what are the risks? 23 November 2007

Nanotechnology, the branch of science and technology which is dependent upon the manipulation of objects at a molecular or atomic level, is now used by many industries across the globe.  Some believe the technology has the power to transform life as we know it but there are also concerns that the pace of change is too fast and unregulated.  So what does nanotechnology mean for the insurance industry?

National Institute of Standards and Technology
Notice
Meetings: Advanced Technology Visiting Committee, 66135-66136 [E7-23032]
overview presentation on the U.S. standards and conformity assessment system; break-out sessions of the Information Technology and Nanotechnology subcommittees to discuss NIST's programs and plans and how they fit into the national agenda...

New science's promise makes it imperative that lessons of past be learned
Headlines about nanotechnology elicit either hope or fear. The science of the tiniest things -- 100 nanometers are 1/70th the diameter of a red blood cell -- can change the way we build, grow and heal.

Nanotechnology and health safety--toxicity and risk assessments of nanostructured materials on human health
Journal of nanoscience and nanotechnology
Singh, S.; Nalwa, H. S., Journal of nanoscience and nanotechnology 2007, 7, 3048
Abstract:
The field of nanotechnology has recently emerged as the most commercially viable technology of this century because of its wide-ranging applications in our daily lives. Man-made nanostructured materials such as fullerenes, nanoparticles, nanopowders, nanotubes, nanowires, nanorods, nano-fibers, quantum dots, dendrimers, nanoclusters, nanocrystals, and nanocomposites are globally produced in large quantities due to their wide potential applications, e.g., in skincare and consumer products, healthcare, electronics, photonics, biotechnology, engineering products, pharmaceuticals, drug delivery, and agriculture. Human exposure to these nanostructured materials is inevitable, as they can enter the body through the lungs or other organs via food, drink, and medicine and affect different organs and tissues such as the brain, liver, kidney, heart, colon, spleen, bone, blood, etc., and may cause cytotoxic effects, e.g., deformation and inhibition of cell growth leading to various diseases in humans and animals. Since a very wide variety of nanostructured materials exits, their interactions with biological systems and toxicity largely depend upon their properties, such as size, concentration, solubility, chemical and biological properties, and stability. The toxicity of nanostructured materials could be reduced by chemical approaches such by surface treatment, functionalization, and composite formation. This review summarizes the sources of various nanostructured materials and their human exposure, biocompatibility in relation to potential toxicological effects, risk assessment, and safety evaluation on human and animal health as well as on the environment.

Existing laws are not adequate to oversee nanotechnology, Professor Albert C. Lin, from the University of California at Davis, argues in the Harvard Environmental Law Review. He calls for a notification system and labeling.

Professor Albert C. Lin at the University of California at Davis law school, recently published "Size Matters: Regulating Nanotechnology" in the Harvard Environmental Law Review. 31 Harv. Envtl. L. Rev. 349 (2007).

November 30, 2007

Center on Nanotechnology and Society 2nd Annual Nanopolicy Conference
Faces of Risk: Nanopolicy and the Agenda for Safety and Society  
November 30, 2007
1:00 – 5:30 p.m. National Press Club Washington, D.C.

November 26, 2007

Nature Nanotechnology
Published online: 25 November 2007 | doi:10.1038/nnano.2007.392
Scientists worry about some risks more than the public
A comparison between two recent national surveys among nanoscientists and the general public in the US shows that, in general, nanoscientists are more optimistic than the public about the potential benefits of nanotechnology. However, for some issues related to the environmental and long-term health impacts of nanotechnology, nanoscientists were significantly more concerned than the public.

COUNCIL OF  THE EUROPEAN UNION
Council conclusions on nanosciences and nanotechnologies 
2832nd COMPETITIVENESS (Internal market, Industry and Research) Council meeting Brussels, 22 and 23 November 2007  

SmallTimes
London meeting reviews British nano policies
By Brian Dance, Small Times contributing writer
November 26, 2007 -- A report reviewing the British government's progress on nanotechnologies and the data needs for addressing risks they may pose, was the subject of discussion during an October 19 policy meeting in London. The meeting was organized by Defra (Great Britain's Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) and ENTA (European Nanotechnology Trade Alliance). 

Chadbourne and Park
'Small Is the New Big: Eye On Nanotechnology Regulations In The U.S. And EU'
In past issues, we have discussed the growing use of nanotechnology in a wide array of consumer, medical, food and industrial products.1 Among other things, we’ve noted that the incorporation of nanoparticles — which may be as small as several molecules — into such products has led to expressions of concern by scientists and regulators about the safety of such novel substances, particularly when used in products intended for human consumption. Nanotechnology is one of the fastest growing commercial technologies — one eventually expected to cut a very wide swath across the global economy — and many public agencies and academic institutions are launching comprehensive efforts to understand its benefits and potential risks. Recently, both the U.S. FDA and the European Union have issued reports concerning nanotechnology and product safety. Both bodies largely conclude that private industry must consider the special risks of nanotechnology in complying with existing regulatory requirements — even though official nanotechnology-specific regulatory regimes are likely a long way off. Requires Registration

Canadian Underwriter
Nanotechnology, climate change, infrastructure among top risks
The four emerging risks facing insurers moving forward are nanotechnology, climate change, aging infrastructure and “the unknown,” Robert Landry, president and CEO of Zurich’s Canadian operations told delegates of the Property Casualty Underwriters Club luncheon.

Ioltechnology
Nano technology: There will be mistakes
Amanda Beck 23 November 2007
Nano-technology has been hailed as the science of the future, with micro-particles already powering innovations that remove lines from faces, strengthen beer bottles and clean clothing without water.

Lloyds
Nanotechnology – what are the risks?
23 November 2007
Nanotechnology, the branch of science and technology which is dependent upon the manipulation of objects at a molecular or atomic level, is now used by many industries across the globe.  Some believe the technology has the power to transform life as we know it but there are also concerns that the pace of change is too fast and unregulated.  So what does nanotechnology mean for the insurance industry?

Foodnavigator
EFSA opens the floor on nanotechnology
By Jess Halliday
26/11/2007 - Nanotechnology is up for consideration by EFSA's science brains, but certain crucial steps in introducing the technology to the market - including a clear definition of the term - must be taken before it came be used successfully and safely, said panellists at a debate last week.

Nanotechwire
EU Science and Research Commissioner Janez Potocnik outlines actions for nanotechnology research in Europe
EU Science and Research Commissioner Janez Potocnik has called on the private sector to increase its investments in nanotechnology research so as to build on Europe's world-leading position in the field. Speaking at a high level conference on the future of nanotechnology research in Europe, Mr Potocnik also emphasised the need for a safe and responsible approach to nano research.

November 21, 2007

Worldwide: Small Is the New Big: Eye On Nanotechnology Regulations In The U.S. And EU (21 November 2007)
Article by David L. Wallace and Nicholas S. Booke
Abstract: "In past issues, we have discussed the growing use of nanotechnology in a wide array of consumer, medical, food and industrial products.1 Among other things, we’ve noted that the incorporation of nanoparticles — which may be as small as several molecules — into such products has led to expressions of concern by scientists and regulators about the safety of such novel substances, particularly when used in products intended for human consumption. Nanotechnology is one of the fastest growing commercial technologies — one eventually expected to cut a very wide swath across the global economy — and many public agencies and academic institutions are launching comprehensive efforts to understand its benefits and potential risks. Recently, both the U.S. FDA and the European Union have issued reports concerning nanotechnology and product safety. Both bodies largely conclude that private industry must consider the special risks of nanotechnology in complying with existing regulatory requirements — even though official nanotechnology-specific regulatory regimes are likely a long way off."

SafeNano
If you’ve ever wondered how to deal with the complexities of regulating a twenty first century technology like nanotechnology, wonder no more.  Last week, President Bush’s top advisors on science and the environment published a set of “principles for nanotechnology environment, health and safety oversight”.

Based on a multi-agency consensus-based process, the document outlines the principles that federal agencies “should follow … as they develop policies for environmental, health and safety oversight related to nanotechnology”. 

Nanotech Northern Europe 2008
Nanotech Northern Europe 2008 takes place at Copenhagen’s Bella Center on 23-25 September, 2008 in parallel with two other exhibitions, ScanLab and BioTech Forum

Nanotechnology Facing Patent Labyrinth
Nanotechnology is advancing at a dizzying rate, but profitable commercialization is being hindered by looming legal issues, as uneven worldwide patent enforcement is forcing companies to resort to trade secrets to protect their hard-won nanotechnology innovations (November 19, 2007)

DEFRA
Nanotechnology Research Coordination Group (NRCG) Note of the 12th Meeting
Progress on the preparation of the 2nd Government Research report on the characterisation of the potential risks posed by engineered nanoparticles was considered. Technical considerations of the report will be dealt with before the preparation of the final draft. A foreword and executive summary will be drafted by the Chairman.   (September 17, 2007)

November 14, 2007

Responsible NanoCode
Debate on Governance Initiatives for the European Nanotechnology Community in the Public and Private Sectors
 
Date:   Wednesday, 5 December 2007, 10.30-17:00 
Venue:   European Commission
Marsveldstraat 21 rue du Champ de Mars
Brussels, Belgium   Rooms SDR 1-2 (floor -1)

Building a safe nanotechnology future
While nanotechnology offers us useful ways to control the material world, more research needs to be done to discover how to use the technology safely
By Andrew Maynard
We are living -- according to some -- on the brink of a nanotechnology revolution, where matter is engineered at a scale thousands of times smaller than the eye can see, and familiar materials behave in unexpected ways. This revolution, if successful, will turn our world upside down.

Competitiveness debate shifts to U.S. tech priorities
EE Times
(11/12/2007)
The August passage of the America Competes Act, particularly in a Congressional session that accomplished little else, makes a huge statement.

Environmental Health Perspectives
Meeting Report: Hazard Assessment for Nanoparticles—Report from an
Interdisciplinary Workshop  (November 2007)
From the Abstract: "In this report we present the findings from a nanotoxicology workshop held 6–7 April 2006 at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington, DC. Over 2 days, 26 scientists from government, academia, industry, and nonprofit organizations addressed two specific questions: what information is needed to understand the human health impact of engineered nanoparticles and how is this information best obtained?

Responsible Nano Code Australia
The Australian Nano Business Forum (ANBF) and Nanotechnology Victoria (NanoVic) have been invited by the Nanotechnology Industries Association (NIA) in the UK to assist in the development of an International Code of Conduct for Responsible Nanotechnology (Responsible NanoCode) as part of a global initiative.  The aim is to develop a voluntary, principles-based Code, which is appropriate for adoption by organisations of all sizes involved in the research, development, manufacturing and retailing of products using nanotechnologies.

To assist in develop feedback to this code as part of the consultation process we ask you to participate in this 10-question survey. You may also choose to provide further feedback on the draft Consultation Code. Please return completed forms via email by 5pm Friday 30 November 2007.

Nanotechnology at war
Military Nanotechnology: Potential Applications and Preventive Arms Control
(Contemporary Security Studies), by Jürgen Altmann, Routledge, 238 pages, 2006, $125.
BOOK REVIEW BY MIKE TREDER

European NanOSH Conference
Dec 3 2007 - 00:01
 Dec 5 2007 - 23:59
The Conference will discuss global safety issues surrounding nanoparticles and nano- technologies, in occupational safety and health in particular; and will provide an insight into future actions for assuring the safety, and thereby the future success of nanotechnologies

Department of Commerce - Federal Register
The Department of Commerce is accepting comment on whether organizations including the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health can import duty-free scientific instruments from abroad or whether there are equivalent instruments made in the United States, meaning the foreign imports could not be duty free. NIOSH intend to purchase equipment for its nanoscience research.

Federal Register: November 13, 2007 (Volume 72, Number 218)
Applications for Duty-Free Entry of Scientific Instruments

November 6, 2007

KemI Swedens chemical regulators has released a report “Nanotechnology large risks with tiny particles”. – Report is in Swedish but there is an English Summary

Nanotechnology Deskbook
Nanotechnology promises to have far reaching impacts on the economy, including offering technological advances in pollution control. While over 200 products that use nanomaterials are already in the marketplace, minimal data exist on the health and environmental effects of nanomaterials. This poses significant questions for companies, regulators, consumers, and lawyers.

The Nanotechnology Deskbook guides the reader through the application of existing law and regulations to nanomaterials by exploring domestic laws and regulations and considering developments in the international context. It includes a focus on special business considerations when this technology is involved and concludes by discussing the...
Author: Lynn Bergeson and Tracy Hester
Document ID: ISBN 978-1-58576-123-4
Document Date: 2007
Retail Price: $109.95

Center of Excellence in Metrology for Micro and Nano Technologies (CEMMNT)
The latest technology road map for UK micro and nano metrology is now available to download from the case studies section of the Center of Excellence in Metrology for Micro and Nano Technologies (CEMMNT) website. The document contains input from broad spectrum of metrology users, policy makers, instrument manufacturers and consultants from industry, academia and government. (Requires registration)

SafeNano – Andrew Maynard’s Blog
Invest in nano applications, and the risks will take care of themselves?
I have on my desk a plastic bag of carbon nanotubes—2 grams of dry, 60% purity single walled carbon nanotubes to be precise—bought from Cheap Tubes Inc. for the princely sum of $80.  And I am wondering what to do with them.  

Despite the cosy assurances of the Manufacturers Safety Data Sheet that these are no more harmful than pencil lead, current research—which is admittedly sparse—is not so certain.  It seems that these thin long fibres can behave in rather unique ways, and not all of them are healthy.  So I am left with a dilemma:  Should I open the bag or not?  Should I put the nanotubes out with the rest of the office rubbish, or should I pour them down the sink?  Or perhaps I should get rid of them the way they came—in a United States Postal Service envelope (unmarked).  (I should note here that the Wilson Center is a policy organization, and isn’t well equipped to deal with hazardous waste).

Nature Nanotechnology 2, 665 - 666 (2007)
Published online: 21 October 2007 | doi:10.1038/nnano.2007.351
Are natural resources a curse?
Richard Jones
Abstract
Many economies in the developing world rely heavily on the export of minerals. Richard Jones discusses what the development of new nanomaterials will mean for such countries.

October 31, 2007

Breaking the Barriers: The BIG Business of Nanotechnology 
U.S. Chamber of Commerce 
1615 H Street, NW 
Washington, DC  20062 
Tuesday, November 13, 2007 9:00 am - 1:15 pm (Eastern Time)|
The National Chamber Foundation presents:
Breaking the Barriers: The BIG Business of Nanotechnology
November 13, 2007
There is little doubt that nanotechnology offers enormous economic and societal benefits through a wide variety of potential applications. Despite the promise of nanotechnology challenges remain.  Many critics are advocating a moratorium on all nano-containing products until all environmental, health, and safety issues have been resolved.

This important event will bring together key industry leaders, lawmakers, and the media to discuss different perspectives on this revolutionary technology.
Confirmed speakers include:
Senator Ron Wyden (D-OR), Co-Chair, Congressional Nanotechnology Caucus
John H. Marburger, Science Advisor to the President and Director of the Office of Science and Technology Policy
Registration and breakfast will be from 8:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m. The program will follow from 9:15 a.m. to 1:15 p.m.

View the agenda | To view the live Webcast visit the following Web site:

For more information, please contact Drew Preston at (202) 463-5500 or email ncfevents@uschamber.com. For sponsorship information, call Evis Vasili at (202) 463-5451.

U.S. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY SUBCOMMITTEE ON RESEARCH AND SCIENCE EDUCATION Research on Environmental and Safety Impacts of Nanotechnology: Current Status of Planning and Implementation under the National Nanotechnology Initiative [Scheduled]

 
HEARING CHARTER

Wednesday, October 31, 2007
10:00 a.m. - Noon
2318 Rayburn House Office Building
Witness Statements
Dr. Clayton Teague
Mr. Floyd Kvamme  
Dr. Vicki L. Colvin  
Dr. Andrew Maynard
Dr. Richard Denison
Mr. Paul D. Ziegler

Presentations from regulators, academics, and other speakers who attended the European Commission's 1st annual Nanotechnologies Safety for Success Dialog held Oct. 25-26 have been posted, and then give those links along with website.

Presentations
Here are the presentations from the speakers:

Opening Remarks by Ms Paola Testori-Coggi, Acting Deputy Director General, Directorate General Health & Consumer Protection

Food applications of nanoscience and nanotechnologies - Ms. Sue O'Hagan, CIAA  

Consumer products applications of nanoscience and nanotechnologies, Dr. Michael Holman, Lux Research  

Health applications of nanoscience and nanotechnologies, Dr. Carole Moquin-Pattey, European Science Foundation (ESF)

"Risk assessment: Knowns and unknowns" Introduced and chaired by Herman B.W.M. Koëter, Deputy Executive Director and Director of Science, European Food Safety Authority (EFSA)

Scientific state-of-the-art, Professor Ken Donaldson, University of Edinburgh  

Risk assessment needs, Professor Jim Bridges, Chair, Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR)

The EU perspective on policy and regulatory aspects, Kees Brekelmans, Enterprise and Industry Directorate General, "Consumer Goods" Directorate

Nanotechnology and the US Food and Drug Administration: policy and regulatory aspects. Dr. Richard Canady, US Food and Drug Administration

The consumer perspective on applications of nanoscience and nanotechnologies, Dr. Sue Davis  

Break out group 1 (Scientists): Discussion led by Professor Rogerio Gaspar, University of Lisbon

Break out group 3 (Industrialists): Discussion led by Dr. Michael Knowles, Coca-Cola/CIAA Science Group

Break out group 4 (Citizens): Discussion led by Ms. Aleksandra Kordecka, Friends of the Earth  

Break out group 5 (Public authorities): Discussion led by Dr. Sabine Hoekstra-van den Bosch, Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport, The Netherlands

Journal of Environmental Monitoring
Savage, N.; Thomas, T. A.; Duncan, J. S.
Nanotechnology applications and implications research supported by the US Environmental Protection Agency STAR grants program
Journal of environmental monitoring
Savage, N.; Thomas, T. A.; Duncan, J. S., Journal of environmental monitoring : JEM 2007, 9, 1046.

Title: Nanotechnology applications and implications research supported by the US Environmental Protection Agency STAR grants program Date: 10/2007   Link to Journal Abstract Abstract: Since 2002, the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has been funding research on the environmental aspects of nanotechnology through its Science to Achieve Results (STAR) grants program. In total, more than $25 million has been awarded for 86 research projects on the environmental applications and implications of nanotechnology. In the applications area, grantees have produced promising results in green manufacturing, remediation, sensors, and treatment using nanotechnology and nanomaterials. Although there are many potential benefits of nanotechnology, there has also been increasing concern about the environmental and health effects of nanomaterials, and there are significant gaps in the data needed to address these concerns. Research performed by STAR grantees is beginning to address these needs. Non-technical Summary: This commentary reviews the EPA funding of environmental nanotechnology, particularly the role of its Science to Achieve Results (STAR) program. Exposure Pathway: Other/Unspecified Method of Study: Multiple Exposure or Hazard Target: Multiple Risk Exposure Group: Other or Unspecified Publication Type: Other Target Audience: Public Policy Content Emphasis: Commentaries Production Method: Engineered Particle Type: Multiple Citation: Savage, N.; Thomas, T. A.; Duncan, J. S., Journal of environmental monitoring : JEM 2007, 9, 1046. Publication: Journal of environmental monitoring Author: Savage, N.; Thomas, T. A.; Duncan, J. S. Volume: 9 Number: 10 Pages: 1046-54
Abstract Only - Available for purchase.

October 30, 2007

The National Toxicology Program's Board of Scientific Counselors will discuss whether NTP should test nanoscale gold when it meets on Dec. 6.
Upcoming NTP Board of Scientific Counselors Meetings
December 6, 2007: to be held at the David P. Rall Building in the Rodbell Auditorium, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences (NIEHS), Research Triangle Park, North Carolina
Agenda 
Background Material
Public Comments
Roster of Attending Members
Federal Register Notice (72 FR 200 10/17/2007)
On-line meeting registration
The meeting will be videocast

Report from the first British Occupational Hygiene Society Nanotechnology Seminar, co-hosted by SAFENANO
Reports
Qasim Chaudhry of CSL, York summarised the growth of nanotechnologies in consumer goods and applications in his presentation. He gave examples of possibilities for Medicines, Cosmetics and Food that could be beneficial to the consumer, and also discussed potential risks in an application by application format. 

Dr Fullam stated that the HSE does not see it as necessary that the UK adopt a separate set of nanotechnology regulations, saying that they see the existing structure of regulation as being sufficient to deal with nanotechnology. Click here to download and read Dr Fullam's presentation in full.   

The penultimate presentation of the day was from SAFENANO's Director Rob Aitken. Rob began by focussing on his own specialist area - exposure, discussing the numerous factors to be taken into account when measuring exposure to engineered nanoparticles.

Foresight Vision
Nanotechnology Roadmap to be critiqued, expanded — Deadline Oct. 31

A draft version of the Productive Nanosystems Roadmap was distributed to attendees at the similarly-named conference (PDF) in DC on Oct. 9-10.

Now participants at the Foresight Vision Weekend will be critiquing and planning expansions of this first roadmap for atomically-precise manufacturing. IMPORTANT: REGISTRATION DEADLINE IS 4 PM, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 31.

Nature Nanotechnology, (2007)
Published online: 21 October 2007 | doi:10.1038/nnano.2007.350
Nanotechnology and the challenge of clean water
Thembela Hillie1 & Mbhuti Hlophe2
From the Abstract: “Access to 'potable' water would transform the lives of many people in the developing world. Nanotechnology is already being used to remove contaminants from drinking water and increase the availability of fresh water, but there is still a long way to go.”

INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF NANOTECHNOLOGY
The 4th International Congress of Nanotechnology/ Clean Tech Congress 2007
November 5-8, 2007
Hyatt Regency Hotel, San Francisco Airport
Agenda

Nanowerk
Does coating nanoparticles make them safe(r) for cosmetics?
From the article: "(Nanowerk Spotlight) Our title today poses a loaded question. The cosmetics industry of course would argue that their products are already safe, whether they use nanoparticulate ingredients or not. On the other hand, there are research reports that show that nanoparticles could cause DNA damage and could accumulate in organs (with unknown consequences). It has not conclusively been proven, or disproven, that nanoparticles in cosmetics applied to the (healthy) skin are able to penetrate the skin and get into the body. Sunscreens are a good example for the pro & contra discussion about nanoparticles in cosmetics. Most people use sunscreen for two reasons: to avoid getting sunburn and to avoid getting skin cancer. If applied frequently and thoroughly, sunscreens do prevent sunburn. However, no one has ever determined that sunscreens actually prevent skin cancer. Another, mostly aesthetic, limitation with sunscreens is that they don't rub into the skin very easily. You rub, and rub, and rub, but still your skin has that pasty, white appearance. That's due to the two most common active ingredients in sunscreens - zinc oxide (ZnO) and titanium dioxide (TiO2). These inorganic materials are used in sunscreen in order to reflect UV radiation and reduce the amount of organic materials necessary to achieve a specific SPF (sun protection factor) value, but the drawback is they leave that unsightly white film. To resolve this problem, manufacturers have started using nanoparticles in place of the bulk forms of zinc oxide and titanium dioxide because the smaller particle size reduces the visibility of the cream. This could potentially mean solving one problem by creating another because TiO2 nanoparticles - a major component of photovoltaic cells - emit photoelectrons when exposed to UV light. These electrons, in turn, induce the formation of peroxides, free radicals and other reactive oxygen species (ROS) which interact with lipids and DNA, causing damage which may lead to a host of medical problems. Researchers have now found clear evidence that titanium dioxide nanoparticles catalyze DNA damage. Fortunately, they also came up with a solution - by coating them - that would allow these nanoparticles to be used with less risk in cosmetics."

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry

ATSDR is asking for comment as to whether it should study the risks posed by nanomaterials.
[ATSDR-235]
Proposed Substances To Be Evaluated for Set 22 Toxicological Profiles
AGENCY: Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
ACTION: Request for comments on the proposed substances to be evaluated for Set 22 toxicological profiles.

Center on Nanotechnology and Society
2nd Annual Nanopolicy Conference
Faces of Risk: Nanopolicy and the Agenda for Safety and Society
November 30, 2007
1:00 - 5:30 p.m.
National Press Club
Washington, D.C.

From pop culture buzzword to potentially revolutionary technology, "nano" promises to impact every aspect of human society. To help ensure that these changes confer maximum benefit while posing minimum risk, a robust dialogue, inclusive of diverse civil society, governmental and business participants, is necessary to enlighten policy formation.

Providing a platform for this discourse, the Center on Nanotechnology and Society at Chicago-Kent College of Law/Illinois Institute of Technology is hosting its 2nd Annual Nanopolicy Conference in Washington, D.C., featuring:

• Dr. Carol Henry of the American Chemistry Council;
• David Rejeski of the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies at the Woodrow Wilson Center for International Scholars;
• Dr. Charles Rubin of Duquesne University and frequent contributor to The New Atlantis;
• Dr. Jonathan Moreno of University of Pennsylvania and senior fellow at the Center for American Progress;
• Margaret Glass of the National Science Foundation-funded Nanoscale Informal Science Education Network (NISE Net);
• Dietram Schuefele, University of Wisconsin, Madison;
• Bill Kojola, AFL-CIO;
• Dr. Nigel M. de S. Cameron of Illinois Institute of Technology and Nano & Society director;
• Michele Mekel of Drake University School of Law and Nano & Society fellow; and
• Other leading nano experts from policy, law, business, and the social sciences.
To register for this free event, contact the Center on Nanotechnology and Society at: RSVP@nano-and-society.org

This event is co-sponsored by:
The Center for Policy on Emerging Technologies

Reasonable accommodations for persons with disabilities will be made, if requested at least two weeks in advance. Contact the Center on Nanotechnology and Society, 565 W. Adams, Chicago, IL60661, 312-906-5337, info@nano-and-society.org.

October 25, 2007

Environmental Science and Technology

COPPER NANOPARTICLES ACUTELY LETHAL TO ZEBRAFISH
Copper nanoparticles are acutely lethal to zebrafish according to a study published Oct 24 in Environmental Science and Technology. The copper nanoparticles targeted the gills and impaired their function, according to the study by a team of Florida researchers led by David S. Barber of the University of Florida. The concentration that killed 50 percent of the zebrafish within 48 hours was 1.5 milligrams per liter. The nanocopper particles produced different morphological effects and global gene expression patterns in the gill than did soluble copper, also used in the study. An abstract of the article is available. To purchase the article go here.

October 23, 2007

Congressional Hearing

HOUSE COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Wednesday, Oct. 31, 2007
10:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
2318 Rayburn House Office Building (Webcast)

Full Committee – Hearing
Research on Environmental and Safety Impacts of Nanotechnology: Current Status of Planning and Implementation under the National Nanotechnology Initiative

Witnesses:
Dr. Clayton Teague,
Director of the National Nanotechnology Coordination Office

Mr. Floyd Kvamme,
Co-Chair of the President’s Council of Advisors on Science and Technology

Dr. Vicki L. Colvin,
Executive Director, International Council on Nanotechnology and
Professor of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Rice University

Dr. Andrew Maynard,
Chief Science Advisor, Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars

Dr. Richard Denison,
Senior Scientist, Environmental Defense

Mr. Paul D. Ziegler,
Chairman of the Nanotechnology Panel, American Chemistry Council and Global Director, PPG Industries, Inc.

Project on Emerging Technologies
The Twinkie Guide to Nanotechnology
New Video Uses Snack Food to Help Unlock Mysteries of Nanotech
WASHINGTON- The Twinkie Guide to Nanotechnology is an entertaining new video featuring scientist Andrew Maynard which mixes the iconic American snack cake with humor to unlock the mysteries of nanotechnology.

View Video: (requires Quicktime to view)
Cable/DSl (60mb, medium quality)
iPod Video/iPhone compatible (135mb, high quality)
Dialup (20mb, low quality)

Related
Visit the Consumers TalkNano web dialogue

CSI Cleantech Fall Summit 2007
Cleantechnology and Sustainable Industries Summit
Washington D.C., Oct 30-31 2007
Renaissance Washington, DC Hotel

October 22, 2007

The latest bulleting from Britain's Health & Safety Executive reviews the latest studies on measurement, exposure, and control of nanomaterials and the latest information on health effects.

HSE NanoAlert bulletin ( Monday, October 22nd, 2007)

October 19, 2007

Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene
Mazzuckelli, L.F, Methner, M.M, Birch, M.E. et al. (December 2007). Identification and Characterization of Potential Sources of Worker Exposure to Carbon Nanofibers During Polymer Composite Laboratory Operations. Journal of Occupational and Environmental Hygiene, 4(12):D125 - D130. Abstract.

October 18, 2007

NRDC and nano
Jennifer Sass's Blog
NRDC proposes a three-part framework for regulating nanomaterials based on a precautionary approach to managing toxic chemicals

EPA
Meeting Summary Report Nanoscale Materials Stewardship Program (August 2, 2007 Meeting)

SafeNano – Blog post by Andrew Maynard
Prize-Winning Nanotechnology (October 15, 2007)
Andrew Maynard
This week’s startling news:  Nanotechnology is revealed to be impacting the lives of millions of people.  A nanotechnology product has been introduced into the market with no pre-market approval, and is now used on a daily basis by people around the globe.  When asked, one person commented “I had no idea it was nano inside”.

Who Put the Nano in My Teddy Bear? (October 17, 2007)
David Rejeski
Director
Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies
Abstract:
When we recently updated our inventory of manufacturer-identified, nanotech-enabled consumer products, there were a few surprises: the product landscape was now dotted with some new entries targeted clearly at children (and, by default, their parents). It is probably worth asking some questions about their safety or asking, more broadly, "Who is in charge of testing these products and making sure that they do not present risks to children, especially products that go directly into the mouth?"

Patent office arms race will hurt nanotechnology
There’s an arms race between government patent offices and patent filers assisted by private law firms. The folks who work for the former get paid a lot less than the those who work for the latter. This leads to a continual drain away from government review of patent applications toward private generation of patent applications. A San Jose Mercury News blog entry explains more of the problem, which will affect all areas of technology but especially new, complex, multidisciplinary ones such as nanotechnology

Study: NanoCar Nanotechnology and Converging Technologies in Automotive Industry 2003-2006-2010-2015
State of Science and Applications of 70 Automobile Manufacturers, Key Technologies,  Market Developments, Global Competitive Advantages and Strategic Implications of Nanotechnology and Converging Technologies (Nano-Bio-Neural-Info) in Automotive Industries and related Industries. (Available for purchase)

October 17, 2007

New DuPont nanomaterial tests Nano Risk Framework (October 17, 2007)
DuPont™ Light Stabilizer Framework Example Nanomaterial Risk Assessment Worksheet DuPont™ Light Stabilizer

Responsible Nanotechnology
Insight Investment, 33 Old Broad Street, London
1 November 2007, 2.00-3.30pm

October 16, 2007

Several meetings dealing with regulatory and other issues for nanotechnologies were announced including...

International Symposium on Nanotechnology in Environmental Protection and Pollution (ISNEPP 2007)
Date: 11–13 Dec 2007
Location: The Bahia Mar Beach Resort & Yachting Center, Ft Lauderdale, Florida, United States

‘Nanomedicine…hype? Or a real revolution in healthcare?’ will take place on November 28, 2007 at the Royal College of Surgeons of London.
The event is organised by the Institute of Nantoechnology in conjunction with the ‘Investing in Medical Nanotechnologies II’, conference and exhibition to be held at the Royal College of Surgeons on November 28-29, 2007

Research and Markets
"Nanoethics: The Ethical and Social Implications of Nanotechnology" (report is available for purchase)

October 12, 2007

Updates on regulatory and voluntary activities addresssing nanomaterials are summarized in a report on the 3rd International "Nano-Regulation" Conference held Sept. 12-13 in St. Gallen, Switzerland.

Regulation of Nanotechnology in Consumer Products
3rd International „Nano-Regulation“ Conference
12. – 13. September 2007, St.Gallen (Switzerland)
Conference report
Christoph Meili, Mareike Lemke and Markus Widmer
The Innovation Society, Ltd,
St.Gallen, Switzerland
October 2007

October 11, 2007

Exposure to nanomaterials in Germany – Corporate survey of the Federal Institute for Occupational Health and Safety (BAuA) and the Association of the Chemical Industry (VCI) using questionnaires
in the magazine "Gefahrstoffe - Reinhaltung der Luft 10/2007, pp. 419-424, in German
Autor(en):
Plitzko, S.; Gierke, E.
Der vollständige Beitrag ist erschienen in:
Gefahrstoffe- Reinhaltung der Luft 10/2007, Seite 419-424
Sie können diese Ausgabe gerne bei uns bestellen
(Abstract)
(purchase article)

Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies and Consumers Union Collaborate on “Consumers Talk Nano”
Important conversation with the public about nanotechnology
Between now and October 23-24, the ConsumersTalkNano website will be updated regularly with videos, podcasts, and links to information about nanotechnology. The dialogue is free but participants are asked to register.

Greener Nano 2008
March 10-11
Hewlett-Packard Company
Corvallis, OR
The 3rd Annual SNNI Conference
Developing greener alternatives to nanomaterials research and manufacturing

October 10, 2007

DEFRA
Voluntary Reporting Scheme for engineered nanoscale materials
The Voluntary Reporting Scheme is for industry and research organisations to provide Government with information relevant to understanding the potential risks posed by free engineered nanoscale materials. The scheme is voluntary and will not replace existing legislation. It is intended to run from September 2006 to September 2008. The scheme was subject to a full public consultation.

Fourth quarterly update on the Voluntary Reporting Scheme for engineered nanoscale materials published - October 2007

The Voluntary Reporting Scheme

Data Reporting Form (Annex A)

Consultation on the Voluntary Reporting Scheme for engineered nanoscale materials - summary of findings and Government's response

SAFENANO
The first of SAFENANO's October Feature Articles comes from Andrew Maynard, Chief Science Advisor to the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars.

October 9, 2007

Nanotechnology Occupational Health and Safety
This conference will bring together union leaders, human resource managers, social scientists, media, public policy officials, and science experts to examine issues relating to potential risks involved for nanotechnology workers - both in laboratory settings and in industry - and ways to limit those risks. A major objective of this conference will be to initiate a conversation on these issues between specialists and practitioners. The unifying theme is that labor and management should pay close attention to the new technology and scientific evidence about its risks; and that the scientific community should be aware of workplace concerns and the history of occupational health and safety issues that have been important with past technologies. The conference will include reports on the experience of previous technologies where this message was not fully appreciated.
From Thursday, November 15 2007 - 7:00pm
To Saturday, November 17 2007 - 2:30pm
Santa Barbara, CA

The European Nanotechnology Trade Alliance
The European Nanotechnology Trade Alliance (ENTA) is holding a one day meeting for companies to input into the development of a Nanotechnology Code of Conduct for European Industry (NCoC for European Industry). 
5th December, 2007 Brussels

October 3, 2007

Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies
The Project is releasing an update of our nanotechnology consumer product inventory.

The California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC)
The California Department of Toxic Substances Control (DTSC) will address minimizing the environmental and human health risks associated with the manufacture and use of nanotechnology products
Web cast in real time of the session.

PARTICIPANTS: 
-- Maureen Gorsen, Director, DTSC 
-- Jeff Wong, Ph.D., Deputy Director, DTSC 
-- Cattien Nguyen, Ph.D., Nanotechnology Program, NASA Ames Research Center
-- Lutz Madler, Ph.D., Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, University of California, Los Angeles
-- Patricia McClellan-Green, Ph.D., Dept. of Environmental and Molecular Toxicology, North Carolina State University                  
-- Justin Teeguarden, Ph.D., Environmental Technology Division, Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
-- Richard Denison, Ph.D., Environmental Defense

When:  Wednesday, October 3, 2007, 9:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Where: Cal/EPA Building, 1001 I Street, Byron Sher Auditorium, Sacramento
Visuals: Audience members, large scientific banners with science, innovation, environment and green chemistry theme

United States: Risk Mitigation Strategies For Manufacturers Of Nanomaterials02 October 2007
Article by Antony B. Klapper, Ricardo Carvajal and Jesse Ash
From the Article: "Despite regulatory uncertainties and the lack of safety data, companies are rushing nanomaterials to market in a wide variety of FDA-regulated product categories. A public inventory of products that claim to contain nanomaterials includes products such as foods (including dietary supplements), food packaging and other food contact products, cosmetics, devices and drugs.1 Food and food contact products listed in the inventory include oils, tea, nutritional and sports supplements, food storage containers, plastic wrap and kitchenware. Some of these products are claimed to help control weight, slow aging, reduce viral loads or destroy bacteria. The inventory includes a number of cosmetic products (77) and sunscreen products (27), as well as products classified as "personal care" products that include toothpaste, wound dressings, pregnancy tests, hearing aids, antiseptic sprays for cuts and scrapes, and pain relief products."

Center on Nanotechnology and Society 2 nd Annual Nanopolicy Conference
Faces of Risk: Nanopolicy and the Agenda for Safety and Society
November 30, 2007
National Press Club, Washington, D.C.

Congressional Hearing
Research and Science Education Subcommittee
Nanotechnology Education
Hearing Charter

Opening Statements
Chairman Brian Baird 
Vice-Chair Hooley 

Witness Statements:
Mr. David Ucko 
Dr. Navida Ganguly 
Dr. Hamish Fraser 
Dr. Ray Vandiver 
Mr. Sean Murdock 
Dr. Gerald Wheeler 

Consumer Lobby Group Slams Cosmetics Safety in US
There are 383 cosmetic products on the US market that contain ingredients banned in other countries, according to a new survey by the Environmental Working Group (EWG).

European Nanotechnology Trade Alliance - The Voice of Industry
UK Government Nanotechnology Policy Workshop for Industry
Date:  Friday 19th October 2007
The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and European Nanotechnology Trade Alliance (ENTA) invite you to attend a one day policy workshop in London on the 19th of October 2007. 

October 2, 2007

Health, Risk & Society
Toxic effects of nanoparticles and nanomaterials: Implications for public health, risk assessment and the public perception of nanotechnology
Handy, R. D.; Shaw, B. J., Health, Risk & Society [Health Risk Soc.]. Vol. 2007, 9, 125. (Abstract only)

September 28, 2007

Seetharam R.N., Sridhar, K.R. (September 2007). Nanotoxicity: Threat posed by nanoparticles. Current Science, 93(6), 769-770. Scientific Correspondance

Research and Science Education Subcommittee of the U.S. House of Representatives Committee on Science and Technology.
Hearing Scheduled for October 2, 2007.  Nanotechnology Education
Witnesses
Mr. David Ucko
Dr. Navida Ganguly
Dr. Hamish Fraser
Dr. Ray Vandiver
Mr. Sean Murdock
Dr. Gerald Wheeler

September 27, 2007

ConsumerTalkNano
Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies (an initiative of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars and The Pew Charitable Trusts), in cooperation with Consumers Union, publisher of Consumer Reports and Consumer Reports Online announces a major effort to reach out to the American public and engage them in an important online conversation about the possible risks and benefits of nanotechnology and consumer products. (October 23 – 24, 2007)

Agenda | Panelists

Responsible Nano Code
Public Consultation
The Working Group has now finished drafting Responsible Nano Code (Consultation Draft), and has opened the document to a public consultation. Interested individuals and parties are invited to submit comments and suggested amendments or additions to the scope, remit and style of the Responsible Nano Code.

Responsible Nano Code (Consultation Draft).

September 25, 2007

Center for the Environmental Implications of Nanotechnology (CEIN)
Program Solicitation

Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars and conducted by independent research firm Peter D. Hart Research (September 25, 2007)
Hart Research Report on Nanotechnology
• Hart Research Poll Results
• Hart Research Poll Summary
• Report Release Event Page and webcast
• Focus Group Podcast – Requires Quicktime 7

The development of regulations for food nanotechnology
Trends in Food Science & Technology, Volume 18, Issue 5, May 2007, Pages 269-280
Chi-Fai Chau, Shiuan-Huei Wu and Gow-Chin Yen   View Abstract

NanoHUB
The nanoHUB is a rich, web-based resource for research, education and collaboration in nanotechnology. The nanoHUB hosts over 750 resources which will help you learn about nanotechnology, including Online Presentations, Courses, Learning Modules, Podcasts, Animations, Teaching Materials, and more. Most importantly, the nanoHUB offers simulation tools which you can access from your web browser, so you can not only learn about but also simulate nanotechnology devices. The nanoHUB also provides collaboration environment via Workspaces, Online meetings and User groups.
http://www.nanohub.org/

Federal Government
Nanotechnology Grants Search from Grants.gov

Current Solicitations from Government Agencies offering Grants for work in Nanotechnology Fields

The Institute of Nanotechnology
Nanotechnology: Skills and Training Survey (September 2007)
http://www.nano.org.uk/nanomasters/PDFs/SkillsTrainingSurvey.pdf

September 20, 2007

DEFRA
'REFNANO: Reference materials for engineered nanoparticle toxicology and metrology'   (Available from SAFENano.org)

September 19, 2007

Responsible Nanotechnologies Code
Consultation Draft – 17 September 2007

Environment Canada (EC) and Health Canada (HC)
Proposed Regulatory Framework for Nanomaterials Under the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, 1999 (Proposed Framework). (September 10, 2007)

September 13, 2007

Federal  Institute  for  Occupational  Safety  and  Health (Bundesanstalt  für  Arbeitsschutz  und  Arbeitsmedizin/BAuA)  and  the German Chemical Industry Association (Verband der Chemischen Industrie/VCI)
Guidance for Handling and Use of  Nanomaterials at the Workplace (August 2007)

September 12, 2007

ELI Congressional Briefing: Has U.S. Chemical Regulation Lost Its ‘Zazz?
September 24, 2007, 2:00 PM to 3:00 PM
122 Cannon House Office Building
Independence & First Streets, SE
Washington, DC  20515

On Earth – Natural Resources Defense Council
Our Silver- Coated Future
by Robin Marantz Henig

Nanotoxicology
Fadeel, B., Kagan, V., Krug, H., et al. (June 2007). There's plenty of room at the forum: Potential risks and safety assessment of engineered nanomaterials. Nanotoxicology, 1(2): 73-84.

Economic and Social Research Council.
Nanotechnology: From the Science to the Social. (March 2007)

Health Risk & Society
Wilkinson, C., Allan, S., Anderson, A., Petersen, A. (2007). From uncertainty to risk?: Scientific and news media portrayals of nanoparticle safety. Health Risk & Society, 9 (2): 145-157.

IEEE Spectrum
Nano particles Without Macroproblems
By Barbara Karn and H. Scott Matthews 
Quick and dirty advice for keeping nanotech clean  

The European Commission (EC)
Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies Action Plan for Europe

Woodrow Wilson Center
Poll Findings Released on Nanotech Awareness, Trust and Food Products
Tuesday September 25, 2007 • 12:30 – 1:30 PM

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (DEFRA) and European Nanotechnology Trade Alliance (ENTA)
One day policy workshop in London on October 19, 2007.

American Association for the Advancement of Science
Public attitudes toward nanotechnology in the U.S. and Europe – Presentation to the annual convention of the American Association for the Advancement of Science – Boston, MA – February, 2008

August 28, 2007

Cientifica
Halfway to a Trillion Dollar Market?
Report (requires registration)

Center for Responsible Nanotechnology
PUBLISHED AUGUST 2007
Challenges and Pitfalls of Exponential Manufacturing
By Mike Treder and Chris Phoenix
Originally published as a chapter in Nanoethics: The Ethical and Social Implications of Nanotechnology,
edited by Allhof, Lin, Moor, Weckert (2007, John Wiley & Sons)

GreenFacts
Nanotechnologies
A summary of the "modified Opinion (after public consultation) on the appropriateness of existing methodologies to assess the potential risks associated with engineered and adventitious products of nanotechnologies" produced in 2006 by the Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR). GreenFacts was contracted to prepare this summary by the Directorate General for Health and Consummer Protection of the European Commission, which authorised its publication. 

NanoTX'07 Conference and Exposition
Oct. 3-4 2007
NanoSafe presentation will provide a 2007 update on the practical five-point risk management approach developed with industry, academia, and the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)

NanoHUB
The nanoHUB is a rich, web-based resource for research, education and collaboration in nanotechnology. The nanoHUB hosts hundreds of resources which will help you learn about nanotechnology, including Online Presentations, Courses, Learning Modules, Podcasts, Animations, Teaching Materials, and more. Most importantly, the nanoHUB offers simulation tools which you can access from your web browser, so you can not only learn about but also simulate nanotechnology devices.

Justice Department Will Not Oppose Proposal for Joint Research Related to Oil and Gas Exploration
“The U.S. Department of Justice announced today that it does not intend to challenge a proposal by a group of petroleum producing and oil field service companies and the University of Texas at Austin to engage in joint research and development concerning the application of nanotechnology to the exploration and production of oil and gas. The goal of the joint venture, called the Advanced Energy Consortium (AEC), is to develop subsurface nanosensors that can be injected into oil and gas well bores. By virtue of their very small size, these sensors would migrate out of the well bores and into the pores of the surrounding geological structure to collect data about the physical characteristics of hydrocarbon reservoirs. The data collected could enable the more efficient exploitation of hydrocarbon resources.”

Province of Alberta
Alberta Nanotechnology Strategy: Unleashing Alberta’s Potential

The North Carolina Biotechnology Center, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and Carolinas Medical Center
Hosting "Nanotechnology in Biology and Medicine," a one-day conference on nanotechnology's potential impact on medicine on November 5, 2007. A pre-conference tutorial and roundtable discussion to provide a background for general audiences is planned for the afternoon of November 4.

FDA Proposes New Rule for Sunscreen Products
Highlights Include New UVA Rating System, Sun Warning Information

The U.S. Food and Drug Administration today proposed a new regulation that sets standards for formulating, testing and labeling over-the-counter (OTC) sunscreen drug products with ultraviolet A (UVA) and ultraviolet B (UVB) protection.(Press Release)

Food and Drug Administration
Proposed Rule
Sunscreen drug products for over-the-counter human use; proposed amendment of final monograph, 49070-49122 [07-4131]
1 CFR Part 352 when FDA publishes a final rule based on this proposed rule. DATES: Submit written or electronic comments by November 26, 2007. Submit written or electronic comments on FDA's economic impact determination by November 26, 2007.

The California Department of Toxic Substances Control (CDTSC) will hold a symposium entitled “Nanotechnology Symposium II:  Potential Hazards of Nanomaterials in the Environment”
on October 3, 2007.  Draft agenda

Contemporary Clinical Trials
Ethical issues in clinical trials involving nanomedicine
Volume 28, Issue 4, July 2007, Pages 433-441
David B. Resnika, , and Sally S. Tinkleb
aNational Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Box 12233, Mail Drop NH06, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, United States
bCellular, Organ, and Systems Pathobiology Branch, Division of Extramural Research and Training, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences, National Institutes of Health, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709, United States
Received 7 February 2006;  accepted 12 November 2006.  Available online 17 November 2006.

August 22, 2007

SAFENANO
A website providing information on nanotechnology health and safety is today being launched by SAFENANO.

"Managed by the Institute of Occupational Medicine in Edinburgh, SAFENANO aims to become the UK's premier resource on nanotechnology hazard and risk. SAFENANO will provide independent and impartial advice to stakeholders including industry, academia and the wider public concerning the potential risks to human health and the environment from nanomaterials."

Environmental Science & Technology
Owen, R. and Handy, R. (August 2007). Formulating the Problems for Environmental Risk Assessment of Nanomaterials. Environmental Science & Technology, 41(16): 5582–5588.

Nanoforum
Report from the Workshop on Nanotechnologies for Environmental Remediation JRC Ispra 16-17 April 2007David Rickerby and Mark Morrison

August 20, 2007

Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the University of Tennessee
Press Release (August 17, 2007)
From the release: "Findings by a team of researchers from Oak Ridge National Laboratory and the University of Tennessee bode well for using single-walled carbon nanohorns, a particular form of engineered carbon-based nanoparticles, for drug delivery and other commercial applications."

Nanotoxicology (Journal)
Generating nanoscale aggregates from colloidal nanoparticles by various aerosol spray techniques (14 June 2007)
From the Abstract: "Growing interest in the environmental and health effects of engineered nanostructured materials requires accurate control of cluster morphology and size in order to make valid interpretations of nanomaterial toxicity. Pressure-driven atomization/nebulization, ultrasonic generation, and electrospraying are common aerosol generation techniques that are currently used."

American Bar Association - International Center for Technology Assessment
American Bar Association Meeting Presentation on Nanotechnology, Nanomaterials in Consumer Products, and FDA Regulation (08/12/2007)

Australian Government
Department of Health and Ageing
Summary of call for information on the use of Nanomaterials - National Industrial Notification and Assessment Scheme (NICNAS). (January 2007)

OECD
ENVIRONMENT DIRECTORATE - JOINT MEETING OF THE CHEMICALS COMMITTEE AND THE WORKING PARTY ON CHEMICALS, PESTICIDES AND BIOTECHNOLOGY CURRENT DEVELOPMENTS/ ACTIVITIES ON THE SAFETY OF MANUFACTURED NANOMATERIALS/ NANOTECHNOLOGIES English (06 August 2007)

The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH)
"The National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH) has posted several material safety data sheets (MSDS) for nanomaterials in its Nanoparticle Information Library (NIL). The goal of the NIL is to help occupational health professionals, industrial users, worker groups, and researchers organize and share information on nanomaterials, including their health and safety-associated properties.  To view the MSDSs, enter msds in the search field."

The University of Michigan Center for Risk Science and Communication
The University of Michigan Center for Risk Science and Communication just announced that registration is now open for the 2007 Bernstein Symposium: "Nanotechnology and Health: Evidence and Impact." Keynote Speaker: Christine Todd Whitman.

August 17, 2007

Mindbranch.com/Technology Transfer Centre Ltd.
Government Policy and Initiatives in Nanotechnology Worldwide (August 2007)
Governments worldwide are now strongly supporting R&D in nanotechnology, with over 30 countries implementing concerted national initiatives and programs. Government spending on nanotechnology worldwide is now at record levels.

Government spending in Nanotechnology worldwide over the next five years will be in excess of US$.

Now in its third edition, Government Policy and Initiatives in Nanotechnology Worldwide details the programs and initiatives of over 30 countries worldwide. It outlines the frameworks that have been put in place and the next steps on the path to commercialization.

Lux Research
Nanotech's Impact on Energy and Environmental Technologies (August 16, 2007)

August 16, 2007

Scientific Committee on Emerging and Newly-Identified Health Risks (SCENIHR)
OPINION ON  THE APPROPRIATENESS OF THE RISK ASSESSMENT METHODOLOGY IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE TECHNICAL GUIDANCE DOCUMENTS FOR NEW AND EXISTING SUBSTANCES FOR ASSESSING THE RISKS OF NANOMATERIALS ( 21-22 June 2007)   

The National Nanotechnology Coordination Office (NNCO)
Public Comments Requested on Proposed EHS Priorities
The National Nanotechnology Coordination Office (NNCO), on behalf of the Nanoscale Science, Engineering, and Technology (NSET) Subcommittee of the Committee on Technology, National Science and Technology Council (NSTC), is requesting public comments on the newly released document Prioritization of Environmental, Health, and Safety Research Needs for Engineered Nanoscale Materials

Comments can be submitted here through September 17, 2007.

European Commission
New call for proposals on safety of nanotechnologies within the pilot project on transatlantic methods for handling global challenges
Pilot Project - Transatlantic Methods for Handling Global Challenges

Application deadline: 2 October 2007
The European Commission is pleased to announce a new Call for Proposals entitled “Transatlantic Methods for Handling Common Global Challenges between the European Union and the United States.”

Nano App 2007
2nd Nano App Summit at the Ritz Carlton Cleveland on October 22 - 25, 2007.

August 14, 2007

Friends of the Earth
Nanotechnology and Sunscreens: A Consumer Guide for Avoiding Nano-SunscreensGuide

EPA Public Meeting To Discuss Nanotechnology
EPA will hold a public meeting, Thurs., Sept. 6 and Fri., Sept. 7, 2007 in Arlington, Va., in line with its continuing effort to better understand the potential risks and benefits of nanotechnology.  

Federal Register
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES
Public Meeting of the President's Council on Bioethics on September 6-7, 2007
SUMMARY: The President's Council on Bioethics (Edmund D. Pellegrino, MD, Chairman) will hold its thirtieth meeting, at which it will (1) Discuss a projected ``white paper'' on the neurological standard for the determination of death; (2) continue the exploratory phase of a potential inquiry into the ``crisis'' of the healing professions with expert presentations and Council
discussions; and (3) continue the exploratory phase of a potential inquiry into ethical issues associated with nanotechnology with expert presentations and Council discussions.

World Care and CRN
Challenges & Opportunities: The Future of Nano & Bio Technologies, Tucson, Arizona, September 9-13, 2007

Productive Nanosystems: Launching the Technology Roadmap,
Arlington, VA (USA), October 9-10, 2007 - CRN's Chris Phoenix to attend and "live blog" the event.

Bourne Research
A Consumer’s Guide to MEMS and Nanotechnology (For Purchase)

August 8, 2007

Invest Australia, the Australian Government's inward investment agency, has produced a summary of Australian nanotechnology capability from both companies and research organisations. Titled "Nanotechnology Australia Capability Report"

University of California, Santa Barbara
Nanotechnology and Occupational Health and Safety Conference
Start: Nov 15 2007 - 00:00
End:  Nov 17 2007 - 23:59

International Council on Nanotechnology and  Executive Director for Policy, Center for Biological & Environmental Nanotechnology  Rice University
Interim Statement: Presented at U. S. Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Pollution Prevention and Toxics  Public Meeting on the Voluntary Nanoscale Materials Stewardship Program  2 August 2007
 
Comments of Kristen M. Kulinowski, PhD  Director, International Council on Nanotechnology and  Executive Director for Policy, Center for Biological & Environmental Nanotechnology  Rice University

Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies
Podcast Episode 3 Trips to the NanoFrontier

Summer 2007 issue of the NanoFrontiers Newsletter, Developing Story: Nanotechnology and Low-Income Nations

August 7, 2007

National Center for MacroMolecular Imaging
Grand challenges for Nanomedicine and Nanobiology
Aug.  27, 2007
 8:30 am - 4:30 pm
Trevisio's
6550 Bertner
Houston, Tx 77030

Friends of the Earth Australia
Friends of the Earth Australia has joined an international coalition of 44 environment, public interest and labour organisations calling for urgent precautionary management of nanotechnology’s toxicity risks to human health and the environment, and its significant social challenges.
Joint civil society statement of principles on nanotechnology oversight

Pending Congressional Legislation
HR 3235 Nanotechnology Advancement and New Opportunities Act (Introduced in House)
Status

Environmental Defense
Statement of Richard A. Denison, Ph.D., Senior Scientist
USEPA’s Public Meeting on the Development of a Voluntary Nanoscale Materials Stewardship Program

Pryor To Co-Host Nanotechnology Summit in Little Rock
WASHINGTON D.C. – Senator Mark Pryor today announced he is co-hosting a nanotechnology roundtable discussion focused on moving nanotechnology research from the laboratory to the marketplace.  Participants include government, industry and university leaders involved in this revolutionary field. He is co-hosting the event with U.S. Department of Commerce Undersecretary Robert Cresanti and Dr. Mary L. Good, Dean of the Donaghey College of Information Science and Systems Engineering at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock.

"Overcoming Barriers to Nanotechnology Commercialization,” will begin with lunch from noon to 1 p. m. followed by the discussion from 1: 30-4: 30 p. m. at the Bailey Center at the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. August 7, 2007

The Nanotechnology Engagement Group,
This report presents the findings of the Nanotechnology Engagement Group (NEG). The NEG was established in 2005 to document the learning from a series
of groundbreaking attempts to involve members of the public in discussions about the development and governance of nanotechnologies.
"Democratic technologies? The final report of the Nanotechnology Engagement Group (NEG)"  

Nanodot Podcasts

Nanotechnology, life extension podcasts

Nanotechnology News - Week Commencing 29th July 2007 - NEW
Total running time 23.45 mins, File size: 11.4Mb, File Type: mp3

The Implications for Health, Safety and the Environment of the Nanotech Revolution
Total running time 33 mins, File size: 13.4Mb, File Type: mp3

Nanotechnology - A Review with an Australian Perspective
Total running time 31 mins, File size: 7.75Mb, File Type: mp3

Christine Peterson’s Penguicon talk on current techniques in life extension, sent by Matt Arnold who set up the programming for that meeting
The full audio of your Life Extension keynote from Penguicon is here:

The podcast version, part one

The podcast version, part two:

Pilar Aguar to address NanoforumEULA workshop in Cancun, 23 August
The European Commission representative will discuss opportunities for Latin American nanotechnology researchers for participating in collaborative projects under the EU Seventh Framework Programme for RTD. There are still places available for participants to the workshop, for which no fee is charged .  

City of Berkeley. (April 2007).
Introduction to Manufactured Nanoscale Material Health & Safety Disclosure For the reporting period of June 1, 2007-June 2, 2008

National Nanotechnology Initiative
Budget Request 2008

July 26, 2007

Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies
Where Does the Nano Go? End-of Life Regulation of Nanotechnologies, written by environmental law experts Linda Breggin and John Pendergrass of the Environmental Law Institute, was commissioned by the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies, an initiative of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars and The Pew Charitable Trusts. (July 2007)

July 25, 2007

US FDA - Nanotechnology Task Force
Nanotechnology: A Report of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Nanotechnology Task Force ( July 25, 2007)

Environment Canada
“Requirements for nanomaterials under the New Substances Notification Regulations (Chemicals and Polymers.”
This advisory note is to inform manufacturers and importers of nanomaterials and any other stakeholders of the requirements for the substances under the New Substances Notification Regulations (Chemicals and Polymers).

Pollution Prevention through Nanotechnology Conference, Arlington, VA, September 25-26, 2007

Productive Nanosystems: Launching the Technology Roadmap
DoubleTree Hotel Crystal City
Arlington, VA USA
October 9 - October 10, 2007

DOE Issues Approach for Nanomaterial Handling
The Department of Energy's five Nanoscale Science Research Centers, collaborating via an Environment, Health, and Safety Working Group, have issued a publication entitled "Approach to Nanomaterial ES&H."

Corporate Watch
Nanomaterials: Undersized, Unregulated and Already Here - Corporate Watch, 2007
"Just as nanomaterial commercialisation has overtaken research into safety, it has also left the regulators lagging behind. Nanomaterials currently exist in a regulatory vacuum with no laws in the UK, or anywhere else in the world, to deal with the specific set of problems they raise. Despite this, over 100 products are already on the market, unlabelled and effectively unregulated."  

July 24, 2007

Nanopesticides 'need specific regulation'
Anna Salleh ABC Science Online
Nanotechnology in food and farming is inadequately regulated, say Australian researchers.

July 23, 2007

Nanotechnology and Occupational Health and Safety Conference
November 15 - 17, 2007
University of California, Santa Barbara
This conference will being together union leaders, human resource managers, social scientists, media, public policy officials, and science experts to examine issues relating o potential risks involved for nanotechnology workers - both in laboratory settings and in industry - and ways to limit those risks.  A major objective of this conference will be to initiate a conversation on these issues between specialists and practitioners.  The unifying theme is that labor and management should pay close attention to the new technology and scientific evidence about its risks; and that the scientific community should be aware of workplace concerns and the history of occupational health and safety issues that have been important with past technologies.  The conference will include reports on the experience of previous technologies where this message was not fully appreciated.

European Commission
Towards a Code of Conduct for Responsible Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies Research
On 18 July 2007, the European Commission announced a public consultation on a Recommendation on a Code of Conduct for Responsible Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies Research. The consultation will provide input for a Recommendation on governance of this emerging area of science, which the Commission will put forward later this year. Contributions are expected from a broad cross-section of European society, including the scientific community, industry, civil society, policy-makers, media and the general public.

Policy Activity: Research and technological development and innovation
Target Group Public and Stakeholders
Closing Date 21 September 2007

Consultation Paper
Consultation Website

Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists
Statement by CSTE on Occupational And Environmental Risks Of Nanotechnology  (July 2007)

CFN Summer School 2007 on Nano-Biology
August 20 - 23, 2007Bad Herrenalb, Germany
Invited experts in the field of nano-biology from international and German research institutions together with lecturers from the CFN will cover specialized research topics such as biosensors, nanoparticles in biomedical research, and nano-toxicity.

Although the CFN Summer School was originally established to address advanced graduate students and postdocs, senior scientists wishing to broaden their knowledge in this field are welcome to attend.
Course language is English.
Organiser: DFG-Center for Functional Nanostructures, Universität Karlsruhe (TH)
Contact details
Dr. Gerd Koenig
CFN - Univ. Karlsruhe
Wolfgang-Gaede-Str. 1
Karlsruhe 76131
Germany
E-mail:
Tel: +49 721 608 3409
Fax: +49 721 608 8496

Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies
"Where Does the Nano Go? End-of-Life Regulation of Nanotechnologies"
WHEN:
Thursday, July 26, 2007 at 12:30 - 1:30 PM
WHERE:
Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars
5th Floor Conference Room
Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center
1300 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW
(Directions)

WHO:
Linda K. Breggin, Senior Attorney, Environmental Law Institute
John Pendergrass, Senior Attorney; Director, Center for State, Local, and Regional Environmental Programs; Co-Director, International Programs, Environmental Law Institute
Leslie Carothers, President, Environmental Law Institute
David Rejeski, Director, Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies, Moderator
 

The American Academy of Nanomedicine (AANM)
AANM has announced that its third annual meeting will be held from September 7 to September 9, 2007 at the University of California San Diego in San Diego, USA

NanoTX
October 2 - 4, 2007 Dallas Convention Center

July 17, 2007

Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists (CSTE)
The Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists (CSTE) has passed a resolution on the environmental and occupational risks of nanotechnology, the resolution's author told BNA July 16.

The EuroNanoForum 2007
The EuroNanoForum 2007 conference and exhibition on 'Nanotechnology in Industrial Applications' has been organised in the framework of the German Presidency of the Council of the European Union. Proceedings  

July 13, 2007

College of Mass Communications and Information Studies
University of South Carolina Columbia
Nanotechnology Expert Survey: Preliminary Results 
Susanna Hornig Priest, Ph.D. and Victoria Kramer, Doctoral Student Fall 2006 USC (June, 2007)

July 12, 2007

EPA

Nanoscale Program Approach for Comment
July 12, 2007 -- To ensure stakeholder involvement in the development of the Nanoscale Materials Stewardship Program, EPA has issued Federal Register (FR) notices seeking public comment on a concept paper and other materials connected to this program.
Federal Register Notice (PDF) (11 pp, 96K) on the Nanoscale Materials Stewardship Program

• Concept Paper for the Nanoscale Materials Stewardship Program under TSCA (PDF) (22 pp, 126K)
• TSCA Inventory Status of Nanoscale Substances - General Approach (PDF) (8 pp, 44K)

Federal Register Notice (PDF) (9 pp, 89K) on Information Collection Activities in Support of EPA's Stewardship Program for Nanoscale Materials

• Information Collection in Support of EPA’s Stewardship Program for Nanoscale Materials; Supporting Statement (PDF) (26 pp, 106K)
• Information Collection in Support of EPA’s Stewardship Program for Nanoscale Materials; Reporting Form (PDF) (26 pp, 141K)

Consumer Reports
Nanotechnology: Untold promise, unknown risk (abstract only) 

Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars: Project on Emerging Technologies
NanoFrontiers: Visions for the Future of Nanotechnology  (March 2007)

July 5, 2007

BAuA (German Federal Institute for Occupational Safety and Health) and the German Chemical Industry Association (VCI). (2007).
Guidance for handling and use of nanomaterials at the workplace.

The Innovation Society Ltd
Nano Action Plan eng | deu | chin | Comprehensive Report on Risks of Engineered Nanoparticles - providing solid ground for subsequent political actions

The Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN) and the Federal Office of Public Health (FOPH)
the Basis Report to the Swiss Action plan "Risk Assessment and -management of engineered nanoparticles".
English Summary
Full Report in German

EPA
Pollution Prevention through Nanotechnology Conference: September 25-26, 2007

The European Commission has requested the Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (SCCP) to prepare an opinion on "Safety of Nanomaterials in Cosmetic Products'

The University of Surrey has launched the Nanotechnology Task Force to discuss future nanotech developments in the UK. 

STOA
the European Parliament's Scientific Technology Options Assessment committee, on the role of nanotechnology in chemical substitution.
21 June 2007: Study on the role of Nanotechnology in Chemical Substitution

UITA - Secretaría Regional Latinoamericana - Montevideo - Uruguay
Agriculture and food workers challenge nanotechnologies
In March this year, the International Union of Food, Agricultural, Hotel, Restaurant, Catering, Tobacco and Allied Workers' Associations (IUF) called for a global moratorium on nanotechnology. The IUF cited concerns regarding the health and environmental risks of nanotoxicity, the broader socio-economic implications of nanotechnology, and the failure to involve the public in decision making about the introduction of this powerful new technology. The IUF represents nearly 12 million workers from over 120 countries - its call for a moratorium is the most significant to date. Guillermo Foladori and Noela Invernizzi, academics associated with the Latin American Nanotechnology and Society Network (ReLANS), have released a detailed appraisal of the IUF's response to nanotechnology and an analysis of its implications.

San Francisco Bay - Nanotechnology Council
Third Annual All Day Symposium
July 17, 2007
Nanotech: From Promise to Reality Creating a Sustainable Environment
Events
Flyer

The Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies is supported The Project onEmerging Nanotechnologies at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholarsby THE PEW CHARITABLE TRUSTS
Why We Need a Green Nano Award & How to Make it Happen
GREEN NANOTECHNOLOGY
Paul T. Anastas, Julie B. Zimmerman (June 2007)

Friends of the Earth Australia
International civil society coalition rejects proposal for voluntary nano risk management
Friends of the Earth Australia has joined an international coalition of 20 public interest organisations in rejecting proposals to manage the risks associated with nanotechnology by using voluntary measures. The coalition has released an open letter rejecting explicitly the voluntary risk management framework proposed by DuPont and non-government organisation Environmental Defense. Voluntary risk assessment will leave the worst offenders unchecked and will be used to delay rigorous regulation and mandatory risk assessment. Protection of human health and the environment from nanotoxicity’s risks should not be optional.

Coalition letter regarding DuPont-Environmental Defense voluntary risk framework 

 The 7th IEEE International Conference on Nanotechnology (ieee-nano 2007)
02 Aug 2007 - 05 Aug 2007
Hong Kong, China
IEEE-NANO is the flagship conference of the IEEE Nanotechnology Council and this is the first time it will be held in China. The conference will feature invited speakers who are world leaders in Nano and Molecular technologies, and will also consist of workshop/tutorial, oral and poster presentations. The venue for the conference is at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre.

FoE Nano News June 2007 - Friends of the Earth, Australia
About the question of whether or not nanotechnology will deliver on the environmental gains that its proponents are promising – or whether many environmental applications of nanotechnology are simply introducing whole new levels of ecological risk.

 Arizona State University
Alum, A., Chen, Y., Abbaszadegan, M. (2007). Potential Toxicity Evaluation of Nanoparticles in Drinking Water. Poster.

Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology
Franco, A., Hansena, S.F., Olsenb, S.I., and Butti, L. (July 2007). Limits and prospects of the "incremental approach" and the European legislation on the management of risks related to nanomaterials. Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology, 48(2): 171-183. Abstract

NanoForum - European Nanotechnology Gateway
10th Nanoforum report- Nanotechnology and Civil Security

NanoToday
Nanotechnologies for environmental cleanup Date: 2006

Bund
"Für einen verantwortungsvollen Umgang mit der Nanotechnologie";
Report on the potential health and environmental risks of nanotechnology from Bund – the German branch of Friends of the Earth

National Nanotechnology Initiative
NNI FY 2008 Budget Summary

European Commission - Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (SCCP)
The European Commission has requested the Scientific Committee on Consumer Products (SCCP) to prepare an opinion on "Safety of Nanomaterials in Cosmetic Products'. The preliminary version of the opinion can be found

International Nanomaterial Environmental Health and Safety Research Needs Assessment
Workshop 2: Towards Predicting Nano-Bio Interactions
5-7 June 2007
Centre for Global Dialogue
Swiss Reinsurance Company, Zurich, Switzerland

Environmental Health Perspectives
Helland, A., Wick, P., Koehler, A., Schmid, K. and Som, C. (2007). Reviewing the Environmental and Human Health Knowledge Base of Carbon Nanotubes

Nanotechnology Task Force launches to drive UK research strategy
The UK’s Nanotechnology Task Force (Task Force), convened by the University of Surrey, launches today with a conference to discuss the future of nanotechnology in the UK.

President's Council on Bioethics
Dr. Andrew Maynard, chief science advisor for the Wilson Center’s Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies, and Dr. Mauro Ferrari, chairman, Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, have been invited to discuss nanotechnology and nanomedicine before a meeting of the President’s Council on Bioethics. At a special session on nanotechnology to be held on Friday, June 29th, beginning at 8:30 a.m., they will present the exciting possibilities that these technologies present, as well as potenial risks and ethical implications.

• View Dr. Maynard’s full presentation to PCAST

• Download Dr. Maynard’sNanotechnology: A Research Strategy for Addressing Risk

Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies - Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars - National Science Foundation Young Scholar
Nanotechnology Policy: An Analysis of Transnational Governance Issues Facing the United States and China.” (October 2006)

Germany's Federal Environment Agency
Legal appraisal of nano Technologies (December 12, 2006)

NanoEthics
Ethics and Technology ‘in the Making’: An essay on the Challenge of Nanoethics”
Volume 1, Number 1 / March, 2007

Environmental Defense and DuPont
Nano Risk Framework
Video of Webcast

The Framework is a joint effort by Environmental Defense and DuPont to establish a process for ensuring the responsible development of nanoscale materials, which can then be widely used by companies and other organizations.
Nano Risk Framework Executive Summary
Full Nano Risk Framework [PDF]
Case studies
Review feedback on draft version of Framework

Medicine, Health Care and Philosophy
Nanomedicine–emerging or re-emerging ethical issues? A discussion of four ethical themes
Lenk C, Biller-Andorno N
Medicine, Health Care and Philosophy
Medicine, Health Care and Philosophy 10(2): 173-184 (June 2007)

Health, Risk & Society
Handy, R.D., Shaw, B.J. (June 2007). Toxic effects of nanoparticles and nanomaterials: Implications for public health, risk assessment and the public perception of nanotechnology. , 9(2), 125-144. Abstract

Journal of Nanoparticle Research
"Experimental study of nanoparticles penetration through commercial filter media." Journal of Nanoparticle Research (2007) 9:117-125. (Abstract only)

The Canadian Institute of Environmental Law and Policy (CIELAP)
Discussion Paper on a Policy Framework for  Nanotechnology

June 15, 2007

On June 18, 2007, the Congressional Nanotechnology Caucus will host a briefing on Nanotechnology Applications for Renewable Energy. On July 16, 2007, the Caucus will host a briefing on Nanotechnology Applications for Energy Conservation. Each event will begin at 2 p.m. (EDT). The purpose of the Congressional Nanotechnology Caucus is to promote nanotechnology, educate policy makers about this emerging area, and facilitate communications between industrial and academic researchers and the Hill.

Institute of Nanotechnology - The Technology Transfer Center (TTC)
Government funding, companies and applications in nanotechnology worldwide 2007

June 6, 2007

The Department of Defense (DoD) has issued its 2007 annual report on the National Nanotechnology Initiative.

Hansen and Antonio Franco, researchers in the Institute of Environment & Resources at Technical University of Denmark (DTU), together with colleagues from DTU and the University of Padua in Italy, published a report on their findings in Regulatory Toxicology and Pharmacology  "Limits and prospects of the 'incremental approach' and the European legislation on the management of risks related to nanomaterials"

June 4, 2007

Cornell NanoScale Science & Technology Facility
The Future of Nanotechnology
A Celebration of the 30th Anniversary of the
Cornell NanoScale Science & Technology Facility
Thursday, June 14th, 2007
Cornell University, Ithaca, NY
Schedule

 The U.S. President's Council of Advisors on Science and Technology (PCAST) has scheduled its next meeting on June 25 on the issues of nanotechnology applications and implications of nanotechnology for health, safety, and the environment
Agenda

June 1, 2007

The Canadian Institute for Environmental Law and Policy (CIELAP)
Discussion Paper on a Policy Framework for Nanotechnology

EPA and Nanotechnology: Oversight for the 21st Century - Woodrow Wilson’s Nanotechnology Project, May 2007

NEW - NATO. (2007). Nanotechnology - Toxicological Issues and Environmental Safety. Proceedings of the NATO Advanced Research Workshop on Nanotechnology - Toxicological Issues and Environmental Security, held in Varna, Bulgaria, 12-17 August 2006. 276 p.

 NEW - Warheit, D.B., Borm, P.J.A., Hennes, C., Lademann, J. (June 2007). Testing Strategies to Establish the Safety of Nanomaterials: Conclusions of an ECETOC Workshop. Inhalation Toxicology, 19(8): 631-643. Abstract

May 22, 2007

Nanorisk Framework
Nano Framework Feedback

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs
Environmentally Beneficial Nanotechnologies Barriers and Opportunities

May 16, 2007

Scoping document on Nanotechnology and disabled people for the Center for Nanotechnology in Society at  Arizona State University I Gregor Wolbring

The Center for the Study of Ethics in the Professions (CSEP) at the Illinois Institute of Technology
NanoEthicsBank

May 4, 2007

Working Paper Resulting from the Workshop on Strategy for Communication
Outreach in Nanotechnology (Brussels, 6th February 2007)  
Editor: Dr. Matteo Bonazzi - European Commission Unit "Nano- and Converging Sciences and Technologies"  - Date of publication: 20 April 2007

April 5, 2007

Upcoming IEEE Nano Events:
April 17, 2007 "Vision for a New Silicon Valley Research Model: The Advanced Studies Laboratories (ASL) and the Bio-Info-Nano R&D Institute (BIN-RDI)"

Northeastern Hosts Day Long Workshop on the Public Policy Implications of Nanotechnology
May 1, 2007, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Boston, MA

FinNano events
FinNano annual seminar 27.3.2007

Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency Strategic Plan (FEBRUARY 2007)

DEMOS
“The UK think tank DEMOS has analysed innovation in India, China and Korea, focusing on nanotechnology and other emerging sciences in a series of reports on: "The atlas of ideas: How Asian innovation can benefit us”
The Atlas of Ideas: How Asian innovation can benefit us all
China: The next science superpower?
India: The uneven innovator
Korea: Mass innovation comes of age  

March 28, 2007

CST published "Nanoscience and Nanotechnologies: A Review of Government's Progress on its Policy Commitments" which reviews progress on actions set out in the Government's response (2005) to the Royal Society/Royal Academy of Engineering report "Nanoscience and Nanotechnologies: Opportunities and Uncertainties" (2004).

ANNEX C: Written/Oral Evidence Collected BSI standards committee NTI/1 ‘Nanotechnologies’

March 27, 2007

JOINT ECONOMIC COMMITTEE
Nanotechnology: The Future is Coming Sooner Than You  Think
A JOINT ECONOMIC COMMITTEE STUDY ( March 2007)
Abstract
Enhanced abilities to understand and manipulate matter at the molecular and atomic levels promise a wave of significant new technologies over the next five decades.  Dramatic breakthroughs will occur in diverse areas such as medicine, communications, computing, energy, and robotics.  These changes will generate large amounts of wealth and force wrenching changes in existing markets and institutions. This paper discusses the range of sciences currently covered by nanotechnology.  It begins with a description of what nanotechnology is and how it relates to previous scientific advances.  It then describes the most likely future development of different technologies in a variety of fields.  The paper also reviews the government’s current nanotechnology policy and makes some suggestions for improvement.

Friends of the Earth
Widespread hypocrisy about nanotechnology is a worrying sign (March 2007)

Friends of the Earth
Nanosilver – a threat to soil, water and human health? (March 2007)

March 23, 2007

The Institute for Food and Agricultural Standards has released a report titled An Issues Landscape for Nanotechnology Standards

Nanotechnology: From the Science to the Social - Economic and Social Research Council, March 2007

March 20, 2007

US EPA, WoodrowWilsonInternationalCenter for Scholars, European Commission.
Nanotechnology and Life Cycle Assessment.  Synthesis of Results Obtained at a Workshop Washington, DC 2–3 October 2006   Date of publication: (20 March 2007)

March 14, 2007

Mark Greenwood in Thinking Big About Things Small: Creating an Effective Oversight System for Nanotechnology.

March 8, 2007

Nanoscale Informal Science Education (NISE) Network

National Center for Learning and Teaching in Nanoscale Science and Engineering

French National Consultative Committee on Ethics (CCNE)
Derniers avis adoptés : N° 96 : Questions éthiques posées par les nanosciences, les nanotechnologies et la santé (French Only)

March 7, 2007

Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies
Nanotechnology Risk Perceptions: The Influence of Affect and Values Cultural Cognition Project at Yale Law School   (March 2007)

Cultural Cognition Project at Yale Law School
Affect, Values, and Nanotechnology Risk Perceptions: an Experimental Investigation (March 7, 2007)
DAN M. KAHAN - Yale University - Law School
PAUL SLOVIC - Decision Research; University of Oregon - Department of Psychology
DONALD BRAMAN - George Washington University - Law School
JOHN GASTIL - University of Washington
GEOFFREY L. COHEN - University of Colorado, Dept. of Psychology

Abstract ||| Full Text
Summary of Findings - Nanotechnology: Affect, Values, and Information

“How Much Does the Public Know About Nanotechnology?”
“What do members of the public think about the risks and benefits of nanotechnology?”
“What explains existing public perceptions of nanotechnology risks?”
” How do members of the publics’ views change in response to information?

The Convergence of International Research and Commercialization in Albany, or CIRCA '07, will be held May 21-23 at the Gideon Putnam Hotel in Saratoga Springs, NY and at CNSE's Albany NanoTech complex in Albany, NY.

March 6, 2007

The Implications for Health, Safety and the Environment of the Nanotech Revolution - NEW
Total running time 33 mins, File size: 13.4Mb, File Type: mp3
Summary

Nanotechnology - A Review with an Australian Perspective
Total running time 31 mins, File size: 7.75Mb, File Type: mp3
Summary

Environmental Defense and DuPont
Nano Risk Framework and worksheet ||| Comments on the Draft Framework are Requested

National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health
Paul Schulte, Director Education and Information Division - Presentation at the Project on Emerging Nanotechnologies in Washington, D.C., (February 28, 2007) - Nanotechnology: A Progress Report on Understanding Occupational Safety and Health Issues

Webcast
Presentation