The rapid pace of nanotechnology development has sparked fierce debate in recent years around the risks and benefits to society of extremely small technologies. While nanometre-scale structures have not yet progressed much beyond the test tube stage, some industrial applications have already developed in areas like advanced medical technologies, and even consumer goods like paint and sun lotions.

While nanotechnologies may bring major benefits to society, they also raise many concerns about the potential risks posed to our health and the environment.

Further information

The European Trade Union Institute (ETUI) website provides further information on nanotechnologies and on the European NANOCAP project.

The European Trade Union Confederation has published several press releases and resolutions in relation to nanotechnologies.

Contact details

Judith Kirton-Darling (send a mail

Sec: Karen Trevayne (send a mail