Nanotechnology May Need Regulation

By Andrew Bridges Associated Press posted: 11 January 2006 10:13 am ET

WASHINGTON (AP)—From toothpaste to trousers, dozens of everyday products contain materials made through the blossoming science of nanotechnology—but laws safeguarding the public's health and safety aren't developing nearly as quickly, according to a new report. Few will say whether the nano materials, often hundreds of times smaller than the diameter of a human hair, are unquestionably safe or dangerous given the lack of definitive research into the matter. However, Terry Davies, author of the report being released Wednesday, said it's time to start discussing changing laws—and perhaps drafting new ones—to identify and protect the public from any risks that may crop up in the future.

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