Nanotechnology

Nanotechnology is a collective term for a set of technologies, techniques and processes involving manipulation and characterisation of matter on the scale of atoms and molecules. A nanometre is a billionth of a metre. Nanotechnology holds out enormous promise, for example improved treatment of disease through ‘targeted drug delivery’ and technologies for environmental remediation, but also poses potential threats to the environment and human health. As with all new technologies, nanotechnology will require careful assessment of its risks and benefits.

The Bioethics Council’s particular interest in nanotechnology is where there is a potential for convergence with biotechnology, and in information and cognitive sciences.

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