Discuss and give reasons why it might be wise to proceed with caution before adopting and utilizing nano-science and nano- technology.
Nano-science and nano-technology involve studying and working with matter on an ultra-small scale and stretches across the whole spectrum of science, touching medicine, physics, engineering and chemistry. At present very little in known about the risks and broader impacts on nano-science and nano-technology. Some of the main concerns associated with nano-technology are Health and environments risk, social and ethical issues, regulation issues, the risk associated with molecular manufacturing and intellectual property issues.
There is considerable health and environments risk associated with nanoparticles and nanomaterials used in nano-technology. In human or animal body there are several potential entry routes for nanoparticles into the body. Nanoparticles can be inhaled, swallowed, absorbed through skin. It can be deliberately injected during medical procedures or released from implants. Nanoparticles are highly mobile and in some instances can even cross the blood-brain barrier when they are within the body of humans. Nanoparticles adverse effects cannot be derived from the known toxicity of the macro-sized material and there is still a plenty of studies to be done. Because of this significant issues for addressing the health and environmental impact of free nanoparticles should be considered first before adopting this technology for mankind.
The other issues are related to social and ethical issues and it can be applied to medical/medicine, military and manufacturing of nano-products in developing countries. Another issue is related to regulation and so far, neither engineered nanoparticles nor the products and materials that contain them are subject to any special regulation regarding production, handling or labeling. In addition there is no law associated with intellectual property rights that can deals with nano-science and nano-technology.
In conclusion, it can be said that it might be wise to proceed with caution before adopting and utilizing nano-science and nano- technology.
