Perceived Risks and Hazards of Nanotechnology Development – Comparisons among Faculty at the University of Washington Affiliated with Nanotechnology/Nanoscience and Environmental Health Science

This is a summary of study done at the University of Washington of faculty members associated with the Center for Nanotechnology or the Department of Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences that sought to evaluate the differences between nanotechnologists/nanoscientists and environmental health scientists in behavior, knowledge, beliefs, and attitudes relating to nanotechnology research and development. The survey found that both groups rarely discuss the social and ethical implications of nanotechnology, both were mistrustful of regulatory agencies' ability to minimize the risks of scientific development, and believed that current regulations are inadequate to protect against hazardous exposure caused by nanotechnology development. Both groups tended to see the precautionary principle as an appropriate strategy for reducing the risks of nanotechnology research and development.