Nanotechnology will have a strong local future if industry and community can agree on the type of technologies that should be adopted, according to one of a number of findings from a nanotechnology report released today by Innovation Minister, Senator Kim Carr.
The report is based on a workshop on social inclusion and engagement on nanotechnology held in Canberra in December.
"This workshop and subsequent report demonstrate the power of big ideas for small and exciting technologies," Senator Carr said.
"In particular it has found the pressing need for increased dialogue between interest groups.
"Industries of the future will be based on the convergence of nanotechnology with biotechnology, information technology and cognitive technologies – all of which will have a significant impact across our economy and society.
"The Government will continue to work hard to facilitate this dialogue between researchers, industry and the general public."
The report shows that different interest groups sometimes have strongly differing perspectives on the adoption of new technologies. It also shows how it is possible for different voices to come together.
"The Rudd Government is committed to supporting the development of new technologies that benefit Australia and we are committed to protecting the health and safety of Australians. We must foster informed community debate," Senator Carr said.
A summary of the workshop outcomes is attached and a copy of the full report is available at www.nanotechnology.gov.au
Media contact: Patrick Pantano, Minister's Office, 0417 181 936
Craig Cormick, Aust. Office of Nanotechnology, 0418 963 914
NANOTECHNOLOGY SOCIAL INCLUSION AND COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT WORKSHOP OUTCOMES
Old Parliament House, Canberra, 1 December 2008
The workshop broadly agreed, in principle, that public participation should encompass the following principles:
- Deliberative
- emphasises mutual learning and dialogue
- Inclusive
- involves a wide range of citizens and groups whose views would not otherwise have a direct bearing on policy deliberation
- Substantive
- topics selected that are significant
- Consequential
- makes a material difference to the governance of new technologies
The workshop also identified engagement gaps that need to be addressed:
- Increased community input into government policy and regulation
- Increased community input into the social impacts and directions of research
- Improved industry and community dialogue
Follow on activities:
- Future workshops and engagement activities should be issues-based, with regulation as a priority.
- An audit of participatory and engagement activities should be undertaken. Nanotechnology that is now in use should be better identified.