News
by Supplier: International Council on Nanotechnology (ICON)
The International Council on Nanotechnology (ICON) is an organization whose activities are broadly supported by industry, non-profit foundations, and governments. Based at Rice University, the ICON is a currently an affiliates program of the United States National Science Foundation’s Center for Biological and Environmental Nanotechnology; however, its membership extends beyond CBEN to include other national and international centers with an interest in its mission. ICON permits a diverse array of nanotechnology stakeholders to share resources and information with the aim of ensuring a sustainable nanotechnology industry.ICON’s activities surround the emerging industrial area of nanotechnology. Nanotechnology is the study and application of materials with one dimension under 100 nm. In this size range, materials can be created with valuable chemical and physical properties which enable a wide range of technological applications, ranging from faster computer chips to new ways of treating cancer. In the United States, the organization of diverse research activities under the "National Nanotechnology Initiative" has led to one of the biggest government investment in physical sciences research since the space program. The field of nanotechnology has captured the imagination of scientists and non-scientists alike who see the potential to create benefits that could touch the lives of people everywhere. Groups like ICON believe that a proactive approach to sustainability and safety will only enhance the value of the nanotechnology enterprise to both industry and the world’s citizens. Our efforts are founded on the belief that partnership activities, between governments, industry, academia and non-governmental organizations are the key to a green nanotechnology industry.
 | | CBEN launches partnership for sustainable nanotechnology | 28 October 2004 - International Council on Nanotechnology (ICON) The Center for Biological and Environmental Nanotechnology (CBEN) at Rice University has announced the formation of the International Council on Nanotechnology (ICON), a collaboration among academic, industry, regulatory and non-governmental interest groups that will work to assess, communicate, and reduce potential environmental and health risks associated with nanotechnology. |  |
|