Nanomaterials are widely used in commerce, but EPA faces challenges in regulating risk
USA. Government Accountability Office
GAO - Washington, DC
2010
64 p.
consumer goods ; control and regulation ; environmental impact assessment ; government policy ; health impact assessment ; risk assessment ; nanomaterials
Report to the Chairman, Committee on Environment and Public Works, U.S. Senate
GAO-10-549
Technology
English
Bibliogr.
"Nanotechnology involves the ability to control 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."
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