report
5.1.6 Security EHS Analysis

The rapidly changing dynamics of present times and forces in a globally integrated world are a reflection of the numerous challenges facing societies in protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure. Recent acts of aggression in London and Madrid bombings have revealed the weaknesses of security provisions in civilian zones. Risk and threats that have multiple dimensions need to be addressed for maintaining harmony and peace. The disruptions in civil society may arise from natural elements or divisive human forces. Technology can act as an enabler in assisting agencies in operational situations, where limitation of time and unknown quantity of risk presents itself and can enhance capabilities in supporting security missions for maintaining peace and harmony in society. In this way, nanotechnology research and development have a great potential for security capabilities that enable critical security missions.

The ObservatoryNANO report on the technology sector Security summarizes the technologies and applications involving nanotechnologies (Singh, 2009). Based on enhancement of capabilities and missions identified in the European Security Research Advisory Board (ESRAB), the segmentation of nanotechnology applications for security can be categorised into four sub-sectors:
• Detection
• Protection
• Incident support
• Anti-counterfeiting, authentication and positioning

The full text of the Security Technology Sector EHS Analysis may be downloaded as a pdf from the 'Related Documents' section at the bottom of this page.