Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars and The Pew Charitable Trusts have compiled a new report on the potentials of nanotechnology.
Controlling the properties and behavior of matter at the smallest scale–in effect, “domesticating atoms”–can help to overcome some of the world’s biggest challenges, concludes a new report on how diverse experts view the future of nanotechnology. Released today, NanoFrontiers: Visions for the Future of Nanotechnology, summarizes discussions among over 50 scientists, engineers, ethicists, policymakers, and other experts, as well as information gathered in follow-up interviews and from specially prepared background papers, about the long-term potential of nanotechnology.
Written by freelance science writer Karen F. Schmidt, the report examines several compelling opportunities for significant, widespread benefit, focusing on nanotechnology’s ability to address the “energy crisis, the need for better medical treatments, and the demand for clean water.” Synthesizing perspectives offered at a two-day NanoFrontiers Workshop held in February 2006, the report aims to “provide a glimpse into a vast new world of technological possibilities and to stimulate broader discussion of the goals and vision for nanotechnology in both scientific and public realms…”
The report–along with the first in a series of related podcasts–is available online at www.nanotechproject.org/114
Press release: New report explores nanotechnology’s future …
Full report: NanoFrontiers: Visions for the Future of Nanotechnology