Science News
The twin toxics: nanotubes and asbestos
A new study shows that carbon nanotubes that look like asbestos can cause similar health effects.
Corrections were made to this story on June 9, 2008 regarding observed health impacts of nanotubes.
Like other nanomaterials, tiny but strong-as-steel carbon nanotubes are touted as this century's wonder materials. Researchers and manufacturers expect these nanomaterials to usher in a new era of drugs, high-efficiency batteries, and exciting electronics. But scientists fear that some nanotubes' striking resemblance to asbestos also implies a likelihood of asbestos-like impacts on humans. A new study published in Nature Nanotechnology on May 20 indicates that these fears may be well founded. It shows that the materials can induce precancerous growths in mice.
In the study, Ken Donaldson of the University of Edinburgh (U.K.) and his colleagues exposed the mice to 50 micrograms of multiwalled carbon nanotubes by injecting the nanotubes into the mice's abdominal cavities. The effects—inflamed mesothelium (a membrane that lines many organs, including lungs), development of lesions, and precancerous masses called granulomas—were similar to those that precede mesothelioma, a known health hazard caused by inhaling asbestos over an extended period of time.
The study "really confirms that the fiber hypothesis applies to carbon nanotubes," says coauthor Andrew Maynard of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars Project on Emerging Nanotechology. According to this hypothesis, fibers that are long, thin, straight, and durable have similar effects on the body, regardless of whether they are made of asbestos or carbon atoms, Maynard adds.
The results provide evidence of potential harm if people are exposed to carbon nanotubes in sufficient quantities. But the study cannot say whether people will be exposed and, if so, under what conditions. "That's one of the big unknowns here that's really got to be addressed as fast as possible," says Maynard. Still, the results show the need for more research on exposure scenarios, the health effects of nanomaterials, and guidelines from industries and regulators for "working as safely as possible with these materials," he adds.
Science
Flannery, a professor of earth and life sciences at Macquarie University, was cited by SETAC.
Pesticides endanger Pacific salmon
In a recently released document, a federal agency concludes that some pesticides harm Pacific salmon species.
Tracking airborne Legionella downwind
The deadly bacteria can linger in biological treatment ponds and elsewhere—but how far can pathogenic strains of legionellae travel in air? New research in ES&T revisits the debate.
Cocaine from drains in Spain
New research shows that conventional drinking-water treatment removes illegal drugs from contaminated water sources.
New research suggests that a flame retardant marketed as a replacement for a banned and discontinued PBDE retardant can be found in people’s homes and the outdoor environment.
Water companies are facing a shortage of phosphate additives that keep the lead out.
A nonprofit environmental group in India takes a new, community-based approach to resolving an ancient conflict between humans and elephants.
Don't build in the floodplain. That's the first lesson I learned (relearned) from the flood of 2008.
Technology
Tiny but powerful aluminum-oxide-based fibers could combat threats to human health by filtering out even tinier microbes.
A technology that uses mirrors to concentrate solar power could provide millions of homes with clean energy.
New technologies being developed in China and Eastern Europe may create usable materials from e-waste.
Renewable energy spurs “green gold rush”
The UN reports record-setting growth in green-energy investment last year.
Stockholm Industry Water Award goes to California utilities
The top water award from a Swedish nonprofit organization has been bestowed on Orange County’s water district and wastewater utilities.
Faster, cheaper search for antibiotics in the field
A new field kit developed by the U.S. Agricultural Research Service and its partners allows for near real-time water monitoring.
Styrofoam: from packaging to picture frames—and beyond
A new technology allows more cost-effective recycling of Styrofoam products.
Policy
John Podesta, former chief of staff for President Clinton, talks to ES&T about the intersection between national interests and rising global temperatures.
Gas hydrates on the front burner
Flammable ice could create a bridge to a sustainable energy future.
What lies beneath
Natural-gas drilling in the northeastern U.S. threatens water quality.
Stop the invaders, continue the trade
A new National Academies report recommends ballast-water management and other measures to bar invasive species from entering the Great Lakes region.
Study suggests new car interiors emit fewer toxic chemicals
Study shows that nearly 30% of 2008 model cars have passenger cabin “emissions of low concern”.
USDA has cut the only public source of data on pesticide and fertilizer use on U.S. farms.
Protecting ecosystems from climate change
A new report by EPA offers suggestions on how to minimize the impacts of climate change on ecosystems.
Growing strength—and divide—in climate opinion
Even as Americans become more willing to act on global warming, opinions are solidifying along party lines.
Business & Education
Tiny but powerful aluminum-oxide-based fibers could combat threats to human health by filtering out even tinier microbes.
The country has a chance to continue on its environmental path, beyond the Games and the borders of its capital.
U.S. manufacturers spent $26 billion on pollution abatement in 2005, according to a government survey.
The scientist's work tallied the invisible water used to make food and other products.
ES&T Associate Editor Dzombak named to NAE
Dzombak is cited for his novel development of models used in evaluating chemical behavior in water-quality engineering and environmental remediation.
A new report shows a rising trend in the number of eco-friendly buildings in the U.S.
