Nanotechnology Now - Press Release: "SOCMA Nanotechnology SME Coalition Expands Membership Categories "

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Abstract:
In response to the growth and development of nanotechnology companies that produce and use nanoscale materials, SOCMA's Nanotechnology SME Coalition has expanded its membership categories to address their specific needs. This new service comes on the heels of SOCMA's recent name change to the Society of Chemical Manufactures and Affiliates, reflecting the organization's deepening commitment to the batch, custom and specialty chemical industry.

SOCMA Nanotechnology SME Coalition Expands Membership Categories

Washington, DC | Posted on March 26th, 2009

While chemical producers still play an important role in creating new chemical substances, nanotech startups and other companies associated with nanotechnology have expanded their products and services. One new membership category is for nanotech startups which will boost chemical industry growth as they move from venture-backed research operations to fully developed private and public companies. As new nanoscale products are developed and regulatory agencies increase their activity, startups will face challenges in safety when bringing these products to the marketplace. In fact, nanotechnology is one of the drivers for calls for reform of the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA), an important chemical control statute.

There are many companies that have interests in the business of nanotechnology but do not specifically produce or use nanomaterials. These companies would join as Associate members and, as such, may participate in meetings, conference calls and SOCMA Nanotechnology SME Coalition events as well as offer their input to comments, position papers, or presentations that the Coalition may prepare. Companies that would qualify as Associate members include, but are not limited to, consultants, law firms, laboratories, research organizations and other industry trade groups. A reduced dues rate is currently available for these new membership categories.

SOCMA's Nanotechnology SME Coalition represents companies of all sizes, including small and mid-sized entrepreneurial companies, engaged in the manufacture, use, or sale of nanoscale products. The Coalition focuses on environmental, safety, and health issues to promote a positive public perception of the nanotech industry, advocate on behalf of the industry to the regulatory agencies (e.g. EPA, OSHA and FDA), address standards and definitions in nanotechnology, coordinate with other nanotechnology trade associations, advocacy organizations and business groups, as well as to act as an industry voice. As a networking forum for its members, the Coalition facilitates information exchange, dissemination of regulatory and legislative updates, and sharing of the best practices for development of nanotechnology stewardship programs.

SOCMA was formerly known as the Synthetic Organic Chemical Manufacturers Association.

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About SOCMA
SOCMA is the leading trade association, serving the batch, custom and specialty chemical industry since 1921. SOCMA's nearly 300 members employ more than 100,000 workers across the country and produce 50,000 products valued at $60 billion annually. For more information please visit www.socma.com.

ChemStewards® is SOCMA's flagship environmental, health, safety and security (EHS&S) continuous performance improvement program. ChemStewards was created from industry's commitment to reducing the environmental footprint left by member's facilities. Industry created ChemStewards to meet the unique needs of the batch, custom, and specialty chemical industry. As a mandatory requirement for SOCMA members engaged in the manufacturing or handling of synthetic and organic chemicals, ChemStewards is helping participants reach for superior EHS&S performance. To learn more visit www.chemstewards.com.

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(202) 721-4182

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