Meridian Institute's Global Dialogue on Nanotechnology and the Poor (GDNP) has published a paper [1] on the possible opportunities and risks of using nanotechnology to address water and sanitation problems in developing countries. The paper shows there is much nanotechnology research related to water treatment, including filters, catalysts, magnetic nanoparticles, and sensors. Most progress so far has taken place in research on nanofiltration. The paper describes a research project from South Africa where nanofiltration membranes are being used to provide clean drinking water to rural communities. It is not clear, however, how widely these technologies are being used in other developing countries. A point of concern is the relative lack of information about potential environmental and human health risks. The Meridian Institute will hold a Workshop on Nanotechnology, Water and Development in October 2006 in Chennai, India.

How nanotechnology could solve Zimbabwe’s water problems was the topic of three “nanodialogues” in July 2006 attended by Zimbabwean scientists and representatives of local communities. The nanodialogues were initiated by Practical Action, Demos and the University of Lancaster. David Grimshaw, who leads Practical Action's new technologies programme said, "Zimbabwe's water needs are unlikely to be met with nanotechnology until we can prove it is cost effective and sustainable."

[1] Hillie, T. … [et al.] (2006). Nanotechnology, water, and development. Dillon, CO, USA, Meridian Institute. http://www.merid.org/nano/waterpaper/

Web sites: Meridian Institute - Nanotechnology Portal and Nanotechnology and Development News

Related news: Nanotechnology: potential water applications in developing countries, Source Weekly, 20 Apr 2005

Contact: Todd Barker, GDNP, Meridian Institute, tbarker@merid.org or nano@merid.org, http://www.merid.org/nano ; David Grimshaw, Practical Action, UK, practicalaction@practicalaction.org.uk

Tags: water quality