The future of nanotechnology

Europe at the cutting edge.

Policy-makers, engineers, scientists and industrialists will gather in Braga, Portugal, today to discuss nanotechnology research for the future in Europe. European nanotechnology is currently experiencing a positive burst with more public and private research partnerships and embedded systems close to becoming a reality.
 
The single largest investor in nanotechnology research has been identified as the European Commission who has recently-completed a public consultation on the principles for responsible nanotechnology research.
 
"These new public-private research partnerships are a real opportunity for Europe to take a vital step forward in the development of this exciting area of research, which is so important to our digital future, " said Viviane Reding, EU Commissioner for Information Society and Media, at the High-Level Nanotechnologies Conference.
 
"These technologies underpin so many applications, from fridges to airplanes that their importance will only continue to grow in the future. That's why Europe crucially needs to remain strong in these areas for our future prosperity."

Nanotechnology growth for Europe

European Science and Research Commissioner Janez Potocnik said: "Nanosciences and nanotechnologies have the potential to drive growth and jobs in Europe, so it is our duty to make sure that they are developed in a positive, responsible way.
 
"The possible applications of nanotechnology are huge and they have an important role to play in our future economic well-being and quality of life. So it is of the utmost importance that we get it right when it comes to their governance. This is why we will be issuing a recommendation on Code of Conduct for Responsible Nanosciences and Nanotechnologies Research, to promote safe and ethical research on nanotechnology and to pave the way for its effective and responsible application and use."
 
The conference will cover three days and welcome some of the top names in nanotechnology research in Europe. A wide range of issues relating to nanotechnologies will be discussed, including the industry perspective, various applications (eg electronics, medicine, manufacturing) and latest scientific advances.
 
Moreover, the EU is looking to make international partnerships in nanotechnology. For example, a joint EU-India nanotechnology research fund was announced earlier this month, with €10 million to allow the best institutions in India and the EU to work together in this field.

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