May 25 2007
The Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturers Association (SOCMA) announces the formation of a new coalition for start-ups, small and medium enterprises (SME) developing and manufacturing nanoscale materials. The Nanotech SME Coalition will inform and provide SME perspective to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the Occupational Health and Safety Administration (OSHA) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regarding the health, safety and environmental aspects of nanotechnology.
The coalition will:
- Promote a positive public perception of nanotech;
- Advocate the needs and interests of start-ups, small and medium-sized enterprises;
- Establish consistency and accuracy in developing standards, definitions and nomenclature;
- Secure fair treatment in trade;
- Share best practices.
“Nanotechnology is a segment of the industry that is on the cutting edge of technology and innovation. With the change in attitudes in Washington, it is even more important that companies seeking to create a nanotechnology business, interface with the regulatory agencies,” said SOCMA President, Joe Acker. He continued, “The Nanotech SME Coalition we are establishing provides the best avenue for this, both from a cost and impact standpoint.”
To that end, the coalition recently met with EPA officials to learn the EPA’s initiatives for nanoscale materials. The EPA recognized the coalition as a resource for information and expertise. As EPA moves forward, the coalition agrees to provide input to the agency as it develops guidelines, definitions and consistent standards.
The coalition is open to all companies, regardless of SOCMA membership. Any company interested in the coalition should speak with Tucker Helmes of the SOCMA Visions Department at (202)721-4154 or [email protected].