Nano-protection: Can Nanotechnology Save the Environment?

Environmental nanotechnologies have the potential to contribute to economic growth and innovation while at the same time enabling sustainable development and protecting the environment. Water treatment and purification and decontamination methods for air, water and soil are some of the areas where nanotechnologies could provide environmentally sound solutions. Remediation is the fastest growing area of environmental nanotechnology and one of major importance for reducing the levels of pollutants as well as the meeting the challenges of major cleanup operations. Current research shows nanotechnology might be able to provide more sensitive detection systems for air and water quality monitoring, allowing for the simultaneous measurement of multiple parameters, fast response, simplified operation and lower running costs compared to conventional methods. Overall, nanotechnology offers significant opportunities for improving the environment. Nevertheless, in order to achieve sustainable and safe development, research on the potential risks and exposure routes must be carried out in parallel with any new techniques or developments.

RICKERBY David; 

2007-12-11

IoN Publishing Ltd

JRC40006

http://www.nanomagazine.co.uk/archive.htm,    https://publications.jrc.ec.europa.eu/repository/handle/JRC40006,