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Societal implications of nanotechnology: occupational perspectives

Environment, Development and Sustainability volume 14, pages 807–825 (2012)Cite this article

Abstract

Nanotechnology-infused products have begun to enter the market in spite of the fact that many sectors of society are still debating whether or not exposure to such products will result in detrimental side effects. Due to a lack of regulation of nanoproducts, it is difficult to track these products to assess how they interact with humans and the environment. Acknowledging this limitation, several studies are starting to investigate situations where individuals are exposed to nanoparticles in the workplace; it is to be noted that manufacturing of materials is the first stage in the product life cycle where exposure may occur. This paper reviews and discusses the potential societal implications associated with the manufacturing of nanoparticles: health concerns, workers’ perceptions, rights, ethics, and the role of policy and regulation. Scenarios are presented, possible implications are discussed, and recommendations are given for appropriate action. Finding the right solution to the identified implications represents a critical challenge. In summary, it is imperative that all stakeholders including industry, academia, government entities, and the public adopt a proactive attitude to ensure that nanotechnology matures in a sustainable manner.

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Acknowledgments

The authors gratefully acknowledge the funding provided by Sustainable Futures IGERT Project sponsored by the U.S. National Science Foundation (Grant # DGE 0333401) and the Richard and Elizabeth Henes Endowment at Michigan Technological University.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Department of Mechanical Engineering-Engineering Mechanics, Michigan Technological University, 1400 Townsend Dr., Houghton, MI, 49931-1295, USA

    Julio L. Rivera

  2. College of Arts and Science, Michigan Technological University, 1400 Townsend Drive, Houghton, MI, 49931-1295, USA

    Bruce Seely

  3. Environmental and Ecological Engineering, Potter Engineering Center, Purdue University, Room 322, 500 Central Drive, West Lafayette, IN, 47907, USA

    John W. Sutherland

Authors
  1. Julio L. Rivera
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  2. Bruce Seely
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  3. John W. Sutherland
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Correspondence to Julio L. Rivera.

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Rivera, J.L., Seely, B. & Sutherland, J.W. Societal implications of nanotechnology: occupational perspectives. Environ Dev Sustain 14, 807–825 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10668-012-9355-7

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Keywords

  • Manufacturing
  • Nanoparticles
  • Societal implications
  • Occupational perspectives

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