But the research into the risks isn't being done as efficiently or quickly as it should. |
Either way, this incident is a wake-up call to the industry because it highlights the problems we face if we don't do diligence with this new technology. |
It's going to be an issue that comes to the forefront. |
Nanotechnology's potential is vast and it's real. The opportunity for nanotechnology ranges from improving Olympic sports equipment to discovering better treatments for Alzheimer's disease. But our ability to reap the long-term benefits of nanotechnology -- in areas from energy production to medicine -- will depend on how well industry and government manage the safety and performance of this first generation of products. |
Product development will always outstrip our understanding of risk, but there is a lot we can do to narrow that gap. |
Pump-action sprays typically form droplets that are much larger than those from aerosol cans. These are less likely to reach the sensitive deep lung when inhaled. |
They seem to be more open about finding out what's going on rather than saying they have everything under control. |
This means the ability to put small numbers of atom and molecules where we want them, to form materials, structures and devices that benefit from such a high level of control and precision. |
To move from uncertainty to certainty we need good strategic research - and fast. |