Fact or fiction?  This book is a great introduction to social behavior and the science aspects of technology-orientated people like me. The first two chapters present plausible fictional role-playing scenarios of the decisions the public could encounter when nanotechnology comes into their homes. The other chapters provide in-depth novel approaches on how to look at future impacts of nanotechnology that will impact a variety of stakeholders

Prof. Paul Westerhoff - Arizona State University, USA

The last century has witnessed the evolution of technologies from vacuum tubes to semiconductors to nanomaterials. Unlike previous technologies, the spiral on innovations in nanotechnology has demonstrated unique applications that were previously impossible to attain by other means. Yet, there is growing concern about environmental impacts of nanomaterials, and thus the subject of life cycle analysis of nanomaterials and products employing nanomaterials is extremely engaging. The book by Gorman, Savage, and Street is very timely as it deals with topics as indispensable as water, mining, human health, to name just a few. The various contributions in this edited volume provide a well-balanced view and critical life cycle analysis of nanomaterials, which is useful for technologists, policy makers, and concerned citizens.

Prof. Ashok Vaseashta - VTT/AVC, U.S. Department of State, Washington DC, USA

Traditional life cycle analysis (LCA) methodologies are concerned largely with public health and environmental impacts from material, product, process, or activity aspects.  The underlying premise of this book is that a more effective approach towards life cycle considerations for emerging materials and technologies should include a wider range of perspectives and disciplines. The authors suggest that a need exists for a more holistic approach that incorporates societal and behavioral dimensions. The effectiveness, as well as the acceptance or adoption, of a technology depends on prevalent context, materials, supply chain, governance structures, and societal norms or cultural behaviors.

General interest.