Nano-Alert: Groups Demand that the EPA Take a Closer Look at Nanotechnology

Because of its antibacterial properties, nano-silver is currently added to numerous products including clothes, personal care products, electronics, toys, and baby products. The effects of nano-sized silver are not fully understood, however, the material is known to be much more toxic to aquatic organisms than regular silver. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has recognized nano-silver as a pesticide, but no further action has been taken to regulate its use.

The International Center for Technology Assessment and a coalition of consumer, health, and environmental groups, such as Greenpeace and the Center for Food Safety, submitted a legal petition demanding that the EPA: regulate these nanotechnology products as new pesticides; require labeling of all products; assess health and safety data before permitting marketing; analyze the potential human health effects, particularly on children; and analyze the potential environmental impacts on ecosystems and endangered species.

To read more, including a list of products containing nano-silver, visit NanoAction's website at www.nanoaction.org.