Friends of the Earth, a US network of environmental groups, has reported that sunscreens containing nanoparticles pose a threat to human health. The group reportedly surveyed more than 120 sunscreen companies to determine whether their products contain nanoparticles.
In its press release the company stated, "But evidence indicates that current nanomaterials may pose significant health, safety, and environmental hazards. In addition, the profound social, economic, and ethical challenges posed by nano-scale technologies have yet to be addressed."
The group maintains that nanoparticles are both unregulated and pose potential threats to human health. The results of the survey, as well as information about nanoparticles and advice for consumers, are contained in Nanotechnology and Sunscreens: A Consumer Guide for Avoiding Nano Sunscreens, which will be released on Aug. 14, 2007. On the same day, the group will hold a telephone news conference to discuss the report’s release and answer questions from members of the media. For more information, visit www.foe.org.
