Posted: December 11, 2006 |
Swiss are critically positive in their attitudes to nanotechnology |
(Nanowerk News) Citizens are critically positive in their attitudes to nanotechnology.
This is shown by a survey carried out by TA-SWISS, the Centre for
Technology Assessment. The potential benefits for medicine, the
environment and life’s amenities are today held in high regard. But
most people say they are unwilling to buy nanotech products
unquestioningly. Information and declaration are important to
them.
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In Switzerland today, there are no signs of a hardening of attitudes
towards nanotechnologies. These new technologies are arousing high
hopes and economic expectations. Even the sceptics do not rule out the
possibility that nanotech research could in the future provide solutions
for major problems in medicine and in the field of ecology. Independent
research organisations in particular enjoy substantial support among
those included in the survey. Their work should be allowed to continue
without hindrance.
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Call for a “Nano Declaration”
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Approval of nanotechnologies is not, however, given unreservedly. Very
few people who took part in the publifocus are prepared to buy and
consume products containing nanoparticles unquestioningly. People are most likely to know nanotech products such as sun creams, textiles or
sprays for sealing surfaces. Many of those who took part first became
aware of the subject from the TA-SWISS leaflet “Know Your Nano!”.
There is a considerable need for more information. Most people are
worried that they might already have unwittingly bought goods
containing synthetically manufactured nanoparticles. A large majority
feel that a declaration should be made compulsory for this new type of
product.
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High hopes and serious doubts
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All those who took part in the discussion rounds are able to make out
the opportunities and positive potential of nanotechnology. In the
medical field in particular – in the fight against cancer, for example –
and in ecology – water purification and photovoltaics, for example –
there are hopes of breakthroughs. But the risks cannot be explained
away. People voice the greatest reservations about nanotechnologies in
connection with food. They are afraid of side effects caused by
nanoparticles. And above all they are worried about the notion of these
tiny particles overcoming the blood-brain barrier and penetrating the
brain. The environment was another subject that emerged as a cause
for concern in all of the discussions.
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Citizens call for transparency
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Little is known as yet about the possible consequences of
nanotechnology, and so citizens also refer to the many uncertainties
and lack of practical knowledge that surround the new technology.
Analogies are frequently made with the debates about radiation from
mobile phones, asbestos and nuclear power. The crucial question is
whether nanotechnology will improve their quality of life. To build up
confidence in this new branch of technology, transparency is the key
prerequisite. A declaration for nanotech products, as well as practical
information about nanotech research projects, could certainly help in
this respect. Switzerland could then maintain its leading position and
make use of the lead it has on regulation. Opinions are, however, divided about whether regulation should be by legislation or by selfregulation
among the protagonists.
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Subtle differences in laypersons’ view
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Social examination of new technologies at an early stage definitely pays
off. Michael Emmenegger, Project Leader at TA-SWISS, is certain of
that. He takes stock as follows: “Citizens are most definitely in a
position to offer subtly different views of new branches of technology
and formulate proposals on how they should be handled. Even when
the experts feel that there are a number of uncertainties still to be
cleared up.”
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The research sector, industry and politicians cannot remain indifferent
to the way the general public perceives and assesses
“nanotechnologies”. Public opinion is crucial to the success of new
products and to Switzerland as a research centre and business
location. That was one of the reasons why TA-SWISS conducted the
publifocus “Nanotechnologies and what they mean for health and the
environment” (see box). The project was backed by the Federal Office
of Public Health (FOPH), the Federal Office for the Environment
(FOEN) and the Zurich University of Applied Sciences Winterthur
(ZHW).
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