GoNano

Strengthening responsible development – co-creation of nano-applications

Based on previous experiences with societal engagement in the field of emerging technologies, concrete applications of nanotechnologies will be discussed and developed in three pilot studies with participation of a variety of societal groups (citizens, stakeholders from business, politics and research). These pilot studies focus on the areas of nutrition, health and energy, and will be implemented in three European countries (Netherlands, Czech Republic, Spain). The aim of establishing and normalizing RRI outside of science in real-world contexts is at the core of the pilot studies.

Establishing RRI in research and innovation

The results of the pilot studies will contribute to the mainstreaming of RRI in research, innovation and governance processes. Recommendations will be derived that inform political actors on how RRI can be integrated into existing national and international technology policies, as well as how it can be used to inspire and guide applied researchers and industrial actors to seek societal dialogue at an early stage. GoNano aims at concrete changes in nanotechnology development processes with dedicated capacity-building services such as training programs (summer schools and webinars), as well as comprehensive information flow to and guidelines for citizens, civil society actors, product developers, researchers and other stakeholders. The European community of RRI practitioners is to be comprehensively strengthened throughout the project.

This EU project is coordinated by the Danish Technology Council (DBT) and includes nine other European partner institutions in the fields of Technology Assessment, university research, civil society organizations and industrial associations. The ITA will develop the project’s methodology for the pilot studies and formulate policy recommendations for the governance of innovation in nanotechnologies at the EU and national levels.