Rob: Well, the science of the tiny can have a huge impact on areas such as
improving healthcare and helping to tackle energy and pollution problems.
Yet in addressing these issues, there are questions on whether in
solving one problem, we actually create another.
Just over a year ago, Berkley, California, passed legislation
regulating the disposal of nano materials.
In part, over fears that because nano particles are so small, they could have
adverse affects on human health and even our environment.
Now, such a backlash against this new technology is especially
evident in the European Union, where scientists are still dealing with
opposition to genetically altered food.
At the European Open Science Forum in Munich, Germany, scientists from
around the world gathered to discuss concerns over what is now a seven
billion dollar industry, and still growing.
Rob: Although the technology is still in its infancy, already there are
over 70 food related nanotech applications headed to the market.
Items that while manmade would be small enough to
incorporate into ordinary foods.
Peter Dobson: I think the dangers we face with nanotechnology are some of
the uncertainties of nano particles getting into the lungs, or being absorbed
directly through the skin.
So I think that one has got to be a little bit cautious.
Rob: And Peter Dobson should know.
A leading nano scientist at Oxford University, Dobson is a proponent of
nanotech, but knows much of the science is still, uncharted territory.
Dobson: I think the dangers, with nanotechnology, is nano
particles could behave a little bit like asbestos.
Rob: Measuring just one-billionth of a meter, nano particles are so
small, they can go anywhere.
Still, scientists, like Dobson, believe any risk, if properly monitored,
will be well worth the benefits nanotechnology offers.
Dobson: All the time, those of us engaged in the pure research are asking
these extra questions.
Rob: Well so far, no problems have been reported with food
products made using nanotechnology, but a cleaning product was
recalled after consumers complained of respiratory problems after using it.