Nanotechnologies are the design and manufacture of structures at the atomic scale, measured in nanometers. At this scale, the laws of quantum physics take over and, combined with the size of nanostructures and nanomaterials, give them specific properties.

Nanotechnologies involve many areas such as electronics, mechanics, optics, computer science but also medicine, biology, environment, manufacturing, textile ... Many applications are already part of daily life: textiles insalissables, smart windows, toothpastes that fill cracks in teeth, cosmetic ...

Raising awareness of citizens

The debate on the new technology aims to raise awareness of the challenge they represent in the coming years.
The CPDP, moderator of the debate's role is to encourage the participation of more debate. Composed of seven members, it will support the dissemination of information throughout the debate. It must account for issues related to nanotechnology to enable the public to express their expectations and concerns.

The thematic sessions will be an opportunity to discuss prospects of development while addressing the health issues, environmental and ethical.

The 17 public meetings will begin with a speech before local scope to deepen the themes articulated around different areas of nanotechnology application (medical, retail, sustainable development ...). Each meeting will be organized around themes so that son of Directors will debate. Participants will, however, the freedom to address topics they want discussed.