Developments in nanotechnology public engagement in the UK: ‘upstream’ towards sustainability?

This paper suggests that if nanotechnologies are to contribute to sustainability, then involving the publics early on before significant R&D has taken place and before established public discourse has developed is crucial. We outline the changing relationships between science/technology development and the publics in the UK which have led to a number of engagement exercises. We then argue that such constructive conversations may not lead to harmonious development of nanotechnologies but may open up differences in visions. This is necessary if public participation is to move ‘upstream’, beyond mere consultation to encompass a co-creation of nanotechnology for sustainability.