Summary
1. Chapter I – Introduction
Charge to the Expert Panel
Objectives and Scope of the Report
Process
2.Chapter II – A Primer on “Nano”
Some Basic Terms and Concepts
Glossary of Key Terms
What is Fundamentally Different About “Nano?”
The Physical Aspects
The Biological Aspects
The Ecological and Environmental Aspects
Convergent Technologies
The Importance of Nanomaterials
Potential Benefits
Public Knowledge and Concerns
Summary of Chapter II Findings
3.Chapter III – A Science Perspective on Nanomaterial Risk
Risk and Risk Assessment
Risk Assessment Frameworks
The Components of a Risk Framework
Hazard Identification
Hazard Identification on Nanomaterials
Metrology of Nanomaterials
Physical versus Molecular Properties
Nanomaterials Characterization
Considerations and Implications for Toxicity Studies on Nanomaterials
Hazard Characterization
Dose-Response Assessment with Nanomaterials
Overall Assessment of Toxicity
Exposure Assessment
Performing Exposure Assessment on Nanomaterials
Routes of Exposure – A Life-Cycle Approach
Risk Characterization
Risk Characterization with Nanomaterials
Strategic Risk Research
Summary of Chapter III Findings
4. Chapter IV – underpinning Regulatory Perspectives on Nanomaterials
A Precautionary Approach to Risk Assessment
Precaution in Regulation
Burden of Proof
Determination of “Acceptable” Risk
Precaution in the Face of Uncertainty
The Role of Public Participation in Governance of Nanotechnology
Using Foresight to “Fill in the Gaps”
Science-centred Regulatory Challenges
Management-centred Regulatory Challenges
Filling in the Knowledge Gaps
Summary of Chapter IV Findings Epilogue
References
Epilogue
References
Appendix A – List of Respondents to Public Call for Evidence.