Posted: November 6, 2006

Germany launches nano action plan

(Nanowerk News) 'We are going to make sure in Germany, that scientifically excellent results in nanotechnology are turned faster and more efficiently into the products of tomorrow,' said German Minister for Education and Research, Annette Schavan, as she launched the "Nano-initiative action plan 2010" on November 6.
The action plan is intended to provide a single framework for action that goes beyond individual government departments, and which brings together goals and plans for nanotechnology. The initial focus will be on future fields, the creation of better framework conditions, responsible use of the technology and a comprehensive dialogue with the public.
'This is one of the most promising technology fields with a huge market potential,' said Ms Schavan.
According to the Ministry of Education and Research, Germany leads in nanotechnology in Europe. This leadership can be measured in terms of research and development (R&D) expenditure and the number of companies and research institutes engaged with nanotechnology.
In the past year, Germany invested around €310 million in nano R&D. For 2006, and this figure is expected to reach €330 million for 2006. Some 600 companies are already involved in the development and use of nanotechnology products, employing around 50,000 people. The ministry predicts that many more jobs are yet to be created, particularly in start-ups and small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs). A boom in market potential is also predicted - over €1 billion by 2015, according to the German ministry.
Source: Cordis