Using trading zones and life cycle analysis to understand nanotechnology regulation

Article reviews the public health and environmental regulations applicable to nanotechnology using a life cycle model from basic research through end-of-life for products. Given nanotechnology's immense promise and public investment, regulations must balance risk with the public good that could come through this technology. The authors use trading zones and earth systems engineering management to assist in explaining potential solutions to gaps in an otherwise complex, overlapping regulatory system.