Abstract
The regulation of nanomaterials is still surrounded by scientific uncertainty regarding their potential human health risks. It is therefore useful to consider learning approaches in the process of regulation. Effective regulation is conceptualised with regard to collaborative activities of state and non-state actors that enable mutual learning regarding the health risks of nanomaterials. A theoretical framework is offered for studying learning processes in the area of occupational safety and health. Drawing on the network governance literature, three learning types (namely substantive, strategic, and institutional learning) are distinguished. Analytical conditions are proposed and applied to the case of nanomaterials in Germany, thereby offering insights into learning processes in industry-initiated collaborative activities. It is concluded that the development of trust among network collaborators is decisive for learning processes. Accordingly, a proposal for research into specific stages of trust development is made.
Highlights
Since approximately 2004, a general concern has been voiced regarding the potential health risks of nanomaterials starting a debate and research aimed at uncovering and managing the risks of nanomaterials.[1]
This joint effort appears to be the result of learning from past experiences with the introduction of genetically modified organisms (GMOs) in Germany, and in the European Union (EU) more generally, from 1990 onwards.[3]
It was no longer possible to discuss the proposed positive effects of this new technology resulting in the rejection of GMOs in the EU at large
Summary
Since approximately 2004, a general concern has been voiced regarding the potential health risks of nanomaterials starting a debate and research aimed at uncovering and managing the risks of nanomaterials.[1]. It was no longer possible to discuss the proposed positive effects of this new technology resulting in the rejection of GMOs in the EU at large Learning from these experiences, research was carried out into the potential human health risks of nanomaterials at an early stage, i.e. in parallel to the development of this technological field.[4] More than a decade of research has indicated that nano-sized materials do not seem to possess any ‘nanospecific’ toxicity, i.e. completely novel mechanisms of toxicity as result of their size.[5] In other words, no sudden. Key findings are discussed and aspects for future research in the field of regulation and governance are proposed
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
