IPTS reports on technology policy: From acceptance to acceptability
In the May 1999 issue of 'The IPTS Report', the JRC's Institute of Prospective Technological Studies takes a close look at technology policy. The report describes the concerns of policy makers and industry on public opposition to key technologies. Public reluctance to new technologies, they say, could lead to a loss of global competitiveness. 'The IPTS Report' therefore details some newly developed approaches to technology assessment, to avoid or limit conflicts over science policy. The report examines the pros and cons of these approaches to policy-making, which involve the stakeholders in technology development and the decision-making process. This issue of 'The IPTS Report' also covers: - Climate change protection: the tolerable windows approach; - Financial innovations and economic development: the role of micro-finance institutions; - The interrelations between technology and total employment: some observations; - Photovoltaic applications and policy initiatives.