Washington D.C. – The National Research Council, as part of The National Academies, has made available its forthcoming book: Review of the Federal Strategy For Nanotechnology-Related Environmental, Health, And Safety Research online at its website. The book provides a thorough examination of the effectiveness of the National Nanotechnology Initiative (NNI) in protecting the public from the possible dangers involved in the manufacture, handling, use, and disposal of nanomanufactured goods.

In an effort to examine the effects of nanotechnology on the environment, the EPA, under the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), has asked participants from the emerging nanotech industry to voluntarily submit data regarding the “material characterization, hazard, use, potential exposures, and risk management practices” involved in their techniques of production.

UPDATE:In January 2009, the EPA released its Interim Report, available here.