Edgar Záyago Lau

Researching Risks of Nanomaterials in Mexico

AbstractThe aim of this article is to evaluate, using available direct and secondary data, the risks to human health and the environment within nanotechnologies research in Mexico. The argument is advanced in four sections. The first illustrates the implications of the risks posed by nanoparticles and nanomaterials to workers, consumers, and the environment. Next, to provide context, is a review of the state of nanotechnologies development in Mexico. This is followed by an outline of the methodology employed, where two protocols were used: The first entailed the creation of a database containing all articles on nanotechnologies published by Mexican authors over a 12-year period and then searching for key terms associated to the risks of nanomaterials; the second protocol involved a web-based search to identify all researchers working in this area. Finally, the results are presented with the conclusion that the subject of risks is, essentially, absent from nanotechnologies research in Mexico.

The Role of Organized Workers in the Regulation of Nanotechnologies

While many of the chapters in this book examine the economic differences between countries, the economy also structures unequal relationships within the workplace. Guillermo Foladori and Edgar Zayago Lau call attention to one such historical relationship that forms an important part of the context of the regulation of nanotechnology: the relationship between workers and managers. Past experience has taught workers not to trust management to watch out for their best interests when it comes to risk. Workers also have been relatively neglected in the technology assessment process, even though they are more likely than the general public to be exposed to new substances and production processes at a time when risk is unknown.