Short address for this page: www.oecd.org/sti/nano
Nanotechnology is the set of technologies that enables the manipulation, study or exploitation of very small (typically less than 100 nanometres) structures and systems. Nanotechnology contributes to novel materials, devices and products that have qualitatively different properties. Its advances have the potential to affect virtually every area of economic activity and aspect of daily life.
Nanotechnologies pose new opportunities and challenges to governments. Nanotechnologies are likely to offer a wide range of benefits, including in helping address a range of societal and environmental challenges, e.g. in providing renewable energy and clean water, and in improving health and longevity, as well as the environment. However, unlocking this potential will require a responsible and co-coordinated approach to ensure that potential challenges are being addressed at the same time as the technology is developing.
The OECD Working Party on Nanotechnology (WPN) was established in March 2007 to advise upon emerging policy issues of science, technology and innovation related to the responsible development of nanotechnology. It is a subsidiary group of, and receives its mandate from, the Committee for Scientific and Technological Policy (CSTP).
The WPN works co-operatively with other OECD groups, including the Working Party on Manufactured Nanomaterials (WPMN, subsidiary to the Chemicals Committee); the Working Party on Biotechnology (WPB); the group of National Experts for Scientific and Technological Indicators (NESTI) and their parent committees.
What's new
Regulatory Frameworks for Nanotechnology in Foods and Medical Products: Summary Results of a Survey Activity
Countries and regions have begun to develop and refine regulatory approaches for foods and medical products and invest in regulatory science and other research efforts to support the responsible development of nanotechnology in these areas. This paper inventories and analyses regulatory approaches, legislative regimes and government-sponsored regulatory science research and other research programmes, institutions, and infrastructure in foods and medical products that involve the application of nanotechnology.
Planning Guide for Public Engagement and Outreach in Nanotechnology
This guide comprises eight key points for planning public engagement activities. It contains a set of questions to help policy makers develop a plan from start to finish, as well as practical case studies from countries that have used the guide in their communication activities.