Box 1.

In response to the challenges of potential health and environmental risk assessments of nanomaterials (NM) and making decisions regarding these potential risks, as highlighted in this analysis, we propose some key areas for future research to ensure the responsible emergence of nanotechnologies

Recommendation	Rationale	Implementation
Adaptive and more responsive risk governance frameworks	Rapid nanotechnologies innovation out-paces regulatory governance based on traditional risk assessment	Encourage and support research on risk governance which specifically focuses on timely yet informed decision making in light of uncertainty and rapid nano-innovation
	Lengthy, post-innovation risk investigations
		Integrate responsible innovation early (upstream) in innovation process
Alternative, complementary tools to risk assessment	Early approximate risk evaluations	Immediate, rigorous testing of already-developed tools to fully evaluate their functionality and limitations
	Relative comparison of NM risks for decision support
		Continue development of new tools including those which may complement risk assessment
Health and environmental surveillance	Early warning system	Use of biomonitoring, such as:
	Potential safety net	Filter-feeders in aquatic ‘hot spots’
		Monitor health of occupational workers
		Direct Toxicity Assessment of effluents