Sustainable nanotechnology: Defining, measuring and teaching

•Discusses definitions of sustainable nanotechnology and recommends conceptualizing sustainable nanotechnology within the Triple Bottom Line (TBL) framework.•Proposes to use Multi Criteria Decision Analysis (MCDA) approach to measure sustainability.•Illustrates its application in MCDA model developed by students in Ca Foscari University for nanotechnology selection alternatives.•Presents priority for nanotechnoclogy alternative selection for different stakeholders (e.g., Regulators and Manufacturers) and sensitivity analysis.

SummaryThe complexity of nanomaterials themselves as well as the enabling nature of nanotechnology in general results in significant difficulties in defining and measuring sustainability associated with emerging materials and products. Defining metrics of environmental, societal, and economic impacts and integrating them into a multi-criteria decision analysis model is one way to assess the sustainability of nanoproducts and processes through an application-focused top-down approach. Given the current high level of uncertainty in many aspects of nanotechnology and the unknown trajectory of a field still in its infancy, it is important to teach nanotechnology in a contextual setting where discussions of uncertainty and variability are strongly encouraged. Sustainability should be linked to technology management processes to capture evolving technology and understanding of its benefits and risks.

Graphical abstractDecision Model for selecting nanomanufacturing alternatives. The Triple Bottom Line approach is used to prioritize Baseline, Low-end and High-end manufacturing technologies based on typical weighting schemes for Manufacturers and Regulators. High-end alternative is preferred for Manufacturers, while Low-end alternative ranks higher for Regulators. Sensitivity analysis shows that small increase in Societal Values for regulators can change their preferences from Low to High technology alternatives. DECERNS software package (9) was used for modeling.Figure optionsDownload full-size imageDownload high-quality image (180 K)Download as PowerPoint slide