The study, creation and manipulation of objects one millionth of a millimeter in diameter could lead to advanced new materials for use in areas as diverse as medicine and aerospace.
Nanotechnology may have its biggest impact on our environment. Although concerns over potential toxicological effects are prudent, these should be evaluated against the potential environmental benefits of this technology.
The use of nanotechnology is likely to lead to more efficient and cheaper solar cells, advanced insulation for homes and materials to improve fuel efficiency, and would help decouple carbon from transport by enabling the development of hydrogen or electric powered cars. Advanced filtration techniques are also likely to lead to significant environmental improvements.
Defra and the DTI have engaged us to evaluate these benefits, make realistic projections and develop policy level recommendations to encourage the development of these technologies. |
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Oakdene Hollins Nanotechnology staff
Our recent report entitled 'Environmentally Beneficially Nanotechnologies' was presented at the Royal Society by Defra Chief Scientist Howard Dalton. You can read the following executive summary or email ben.walsh@oakdenehollins.co.uk for a copy of the full report.
 Summary of Environmentally Beneficial
Nanotechnologies: Barriers and Opportunities (184kB)
Reports are in Adobe Reader format, and a free reader can be obtained from the  Adobe web-site
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