Nano Everywhere

When Christian Schwägerl strolls the streets he finds ever more products advertised as enhanced by nanotechnology. The goods range from cosmetics to car maintenance equipment. Obviously 'nano' is en vogue. But as companies watch out for new markets, also Greenpeace is doing so, argues Schwägerl in FAZ (6.6.2005). Nanotechnology may also see some drawbacks as, for instance, hazardous health effects from nano particles may not ruled out. And according to the German science ministry nanotech may be used almost everywhere in future products. Hence, some scientists are concerned that the buzzword turns into the opposite, comparable to a GMO-like meaning. On the other hand, Greenpeace and Cambridge University's nanotech branch launched the citizen's jury, dubbed NanoJury UK, to query lay people on their concerns and hopes regarding nanotechnology.