nanotechnology

Nanotechnology is concerned with matter that is many tens of thousands of times smaller than the thickness of a hair, sometimes so small that the number of molecules or atoms can be counted. Discoveries made in nanotechnology can be applied in many ways. Some examples:

medical applications , nanotechnology can be used to make mini-diagnostic devices that can be introduced into the body to recognize diseases at an early stage. Furthermore, the technology can be used to develop new tissues that can help in the future, for example, in making artificial organs.
computer technology, here, working with very small particles can greatly increase the storage capacity of chips in the future. In the more distant future, nanotechnology may even help build super-fast computers.
nanotechnology can also be used to develop new materials for almost all branches of industry, to reduce pollution and to protect the environment , and also in the field of security and combating crime . For example, banknotes may in the future be protected with a so-called & ldquo; nano-tag & rdquo ;, which makes copying virtually impossible.

The role of UNESCO: ethics

UNESCO is concerned with the ethical issues surrounding nanotechnology. Precisely because it concerns a complicated technique that is often invisible to the naked eye, but which is becoming increasingly important in society, there are all kinds of ethical questions to be answered. What are the goals of nanotechnology and what resources are used? What about the use of human tissues, and for example replacing organs with artificial ones? What does it mean for privacy if there will soon be cameras and microphones that are virtually invisible?

Reflecting on these issues is the most important task for UNESCO in the field of nanotechnology. The organization brings scientists together to come up with recommendations on ethical aspects.

In July 2005, the first major meeting was organized for the & lsquo; expert group & rsquo ;, which examines the ethical issues surrounding nanotechnology. We are currently working hard on a work plan for the future. COMEST, the & ldquo; World Commission on the Ethics of Scientific Knowledge and Technology & rdquo ;, advises UNESCO on ethical questions related to new technology. The Commission is preparing an opinion that will put the subject on the UNESCO agenda at the forthcoming General Conference in 2007.

© 2006-2008 PV UNESCO in Paris, France