Nanotechnology for a Sustainable Future: Addressing Global Challenges with the International Network4Sustainable Nanotechnology

TLDR

Nanotechnology plays a key role in global sustainability initiatives. The paper demonstrates how nanotechnology can advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals and promotes a global network of nanocenters to accelerate progress. The authors outline targeting solutions, technology translation, circular economy practices, and national examples, and they have formed a network of leading nanocenters to coordinate these efforts.

Abstract

Nanotechnology has important roles to play in international efforts in sustainability. We discuss how current and future capabilities in nanotechnology align with and support the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. We argue that, as a field, we can accelerate the progress toward these goals both directly through technological solutions and through our special interdisciplinary skills in communication and tackling difficult challenges. We discuss the roles of targeting solutions, technology translation, the circular economy, and a number of examples from national efforts around the world in reaching these goals. We have formed a network of leading nanocenters to address these challenges globally and seek to recruit others to join us.