Nanotechnology
Subtitle: nanomaterials are widely used in commerce, but EPA faces challenges in regulating risk : report to the Chairman, Committee on Environment and Public Works, U.S. Senate
By: United States Government Accountability Office
Contributors: United States. Congress. Senate. Committee on Environment and Public Works
Publisher: U.S. Govt. Accountability Office
Published: 2010
Place of publication: Washington, D.C.]
Language: eng
Format: [electronic resource] :
Number of pages: 59
Subjects: Nanotechnology; Government policy; Regulation; Science and state; Rules and practice; United States. Environmental Protection Agency; United States
Other titles: Nanotechnology :; Nanomaterials are widely used in commerce, but EPA faces challenges in regulating risk
Description: Nanotechnology involves the ability tocontroll matter at the scale of a nanometer - one billionth of a meter. The world market for products that contain nanomaterials is expected to reach $2.6 trillion by 2015. In this context, GAO (1) identified examples of current and potential uses of nanomaterials, (2) determined what is known about the potential human health and environmental risks from nanomaterials, (3) assessed actions EPA has taken to better understand and regulate the risks posed by nanomaterials as well as its authorities to do so, and (4) identified approaches that other selected national authorities and actions U.S. states have taken to address the potential risks associated with nanomaterials. GAO analyzed selected laws and regulations, reviewed information on EPA's Nanoscale Materials Stewardship Program, and consulted with EPA officials and legal experts to obtain their perspectives on EPA's authorities to regulate nanomaterials.
Notes: Title from title screen (viewed on Sept. 16, 2010).

"May 2010."

"GAO-10-549."

Includes bibliographical references.

Mode of access: Internet from GAO web site. Address as of 9/16/2010: http://www.gao.gov/new.items/d10549.pdf.