Accompanying Nanotechnological Developments: NE3LS Perspectives
SHERBROOKE RESEARCH PROJECT CIHR 2009-2015

Background and Research Problem

Nanotechnology development raises fundamental issues in  NE3LS (ethical, environmental, economic, legal and social dimensions). Many national [1] and international [2,3] organisms require that the NE3LS:

a) be integrated to the nanotechnological development.  
b) consider the impacts, not only after their development, but during their development as well.  
c) favor the stakeholders’ actions, debates and communication (research, industry, politics, citizens) regarding society’s real or potential choices related to these developments.  
d) guide the choice of manner in which to proceed for follow-ups, identifying impacts (positive and negative) and to elaborate precautions adapted to this new level.

No NE3LS accompanying interdisciplinary method exists that is able to satisfy these requirements.

Objectives and Methodology

Develop a NE3LS accompanying interdisciplinary method for the nanotechnological development using the objectives of the three research axis:

Outcomes

Offer an interdisciplinary reference for public use on the analysis of the impact of nanotechnologies in health and their social acceptability.

Recommend procedures for follow-ups, identifying impacts (positive and negative) and elaborate precautions adapted to this new level.

Favor the transfer of results as required by many national and international organisms concerned by nanotechnologies.

In order to accomplish this transfer, we must equip ourselves with general means to accompany the growth in use and dissemination of nanoparticles.

Update the 8 capital principles involved in constructing a research and training strategy on nanotechnologies for the National Action Plan (Quebec).