Innovative and responsible governance of nanotechnology for societal development

Abstract

Governance of nanotechnology is essential for realizing economic growth and other societal benefits of the new technology, protecting public health and environment, and supporting global collaboration and progress. The article outlines governance principles and methods specific for this emerging field. Advances in the last 10 years, the current status and a vision for the next decade are presented based on an international study with input from over 35 countries.Keywords Nanoscale science and engineering Á Nanotechnology innovation and commercialization Á Responsible development, Global governance, Emerging technologies Á Societal implications Á Ethical and legal aspects Á Nanotechnology market Á Public participation Á International perspective Vision for the next decadeChanges in the vision over the last 10 years Nanotechnology has been defined as ''a multidisciplinary field in support of a broad-based technology to reach mass use by 2020, offering a new approach for education, innovation, learning, and governance' ' (Roco et al. 1999). The governance of nanotechnology development for societal benefit is a challenge with many facets ranging from fostering research and innovation to addressing ethical concerns and long-term human development aspects. The U.S. nanotechnology governance approach has aimed to be ''transformational, responsible, and inclusive, and [to] allow visionary development'' (Roco 2008). Both domestically and globally, the approach to nanotechnology governance has evolved considerably in the last 10 years:• The viability and societal importance of nanotechnology applications has been confirmed, while extreme predictions, both pro and con, have receded.

Perceptions and actions: relationships of views on risk with citation actions of nanotechnology scientists

“…Nanotechnology is an emerging, multidisciplinary technology which has been considered to offer the potential for transformative effects on society and economy (Roco, et al, 2011). Given that it is a science-driven technology, the role of scientists is especially relevant to the development of the domain.…”

Nanotechnology in Diagnosis: A Review

“…Bone defects can be treated by using these hydroxyapatite nanoparticles [7]. An international co-funding arrangement in nano drug development will equally be a good step in expanding treatment [8].…”

Pesquisa e desenvolvimento responsável? Traduzindo ausências a partir da nanotecnologia em Portugal

“…2003), bem como os sucessivos documentos estratégicos da iniciativa nacional para a nanotecnologia (NSTC, 2007), adota explicitamente uma retórica que reitera o compromisso com a precaução e a responsabilidade, definindo como prioridade a consideração integrada de questões relacionadas ao meio ambiente, saúde e segurança, bem como de aspectos éticos, legais e sociais (Roco et al, 2011). No âmbito europeu, não apenas os programas nacionais de diversos países, como o Reino Unido (UK Government, 2005), a Holanda (Rip, 2005(Rip, , 2008, a França (Laurent, 2011) ou a Alemanha (BMBF, 2008), mas especialmente a estratégia da Comissão Europeia (EC, 2004(EC, , 2005, também têm apresentado um especial enfoque à pertinência de se fomentar o desenvolvimento da nanotecnologia, mas, sobretudo, sobre a necessidade de fazê-lo de forma responsável.…”