American Chemical Society's nanoEHS briefing for Congress

Nanotechnology has changed the way we consider environmental, health, and safety issues in chemicals and materials. Factors such as size, shape, and surface properties in addition to chemical composition may permit exploitation of novel properties. While the science to engineer nanomaterials has evolved largely since the 1980s, laws such as the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) to regulate materials were crafted in the 1970s. Therefore, does our understanding of and information about nanotechnology adequately inform policy to ensure safe product development? As nanomaterials proliferate, are current policies up to the task? This panel will discuss whether policymakers have or need to assemble the right toolbox to confront and reap the potentials of nanotechnology.