Nanotechnology refers to the manipulation of material at a molecular and atomic scale for novel properties and usage which have at least one dimension sized from 1 to 100 nanometers.

Generally, nanotechnology deals with developing materials, devices, or other structures and can be found in a wider range of products such as food, cosmetics or medical applications. To date there is uncertainty on the impact of nanotechnology. Exposure to nanoparticles may be linked to certain diseases or affecting fertility.

Nanotechnology involves some particles, which may be toxic for the environment. For instance bacteriostatic silver nanoparticles, used in socks to reduce foot odor, are released into the waste water stream while being washed, which may destroy crucial bacteria and components of natural ecosystems, farms, and waste treatment processes.