Obama’s biotech strategy – letter from Linda
By Linda on Apr 22, 2010 in Interesting Stories | comments(0)
Dear Lyme friend,
On September 21, 2009, President Obama outlined his innovation strategy in
a speech in Troy, N.Y., after touring the technology classrooms of Hudson
Valley Community College.
“From biotechnology to nanotechnology, from the development of new forms
of energy to research into treatments of ancient diseases, there is so
much potential to change our world and improve our lives,” Obama said.
I feel that it is very irresponsible for the President to promote
nanotechnology when there are serious concerns about its safety and there
is virtually no regulation of the industry.
Last December, a report by the National Research Council found serious
gaps in the government’s plan for determining if nanomaterials pose a risk
and called for an effective national plan for identifying and managing
potential risks.
In a March 2009 commentary, a Lloyd’s of London analyst drew parallels
between the global financial meltdown and risks from nanomaterials. The
financial collapse reflected “blithe acceptance of complex products that
many didn’t understand.” With regard to nanomaterials, he commented that
“the importance of getting to grips with and quantifying complex sources
of risk has never been more obvious.”
I understand the EPA is considering taking a more precautionary approach
to nanomaterials. In the mean time, all consumers can do is try to avoid
them, especially the many nanotech foods and cosmetics. The problem is
that they are not labeled.
That is why I am happy to hear that the United States Department of
Agriculture’s National Organic Standards Board (NOSB) is considering an
official ban on nanotechnology in organic.
I am writing to the NOSB in support of the ban on nanotechnology. If they
pass it, I hope that you will ensure that the USDA’s National Organic
Program acts quickly to enforce it.
Sincerely,
Linda Heming
