Issues: Emerging technologies

Emerging technologies

SGR produces a range of resources on the issue of 'Emerging technologies'. This covers a wide range of new and controversial technologies such as hydraulic fracturing (fracking), artificial intelligence and autonomous systems, climate/ geo-engineering, genetically-modified organisms and synthetic biology, and nanotechnologies. An explicit concern is the adequate application of the precautionary principle, and the possible alternatives to emerging technologies, including 'appropriate' technology and non-technological solutions such economic, political or social change.

Predators, Drones and Robofly: Robotics and the military

Chris Langley describes how military interests have become pervasive in robotic science and engineering and outlines the ethical problems this causes.

Article from SGR Newsletter no. 33, winter 2007
 

 

GM co-existence: SGR response

SGR Submission, written by Eva Novotny, to the Consultation on proposals for managing the coexistence of GM, conventional and organic crops, July 2006
 

Managing nanotechnology

Alexis Vlandas, Oxford University, discusses some ways in which nanotechnology might be managed to try to prevent negative environmental, security, health or social impacts.

Article from SGR Newsletter no. 32, June 2006
 

Critical Paths

12 inspiring cases of ethical careers in science and technology

Booklet edited by Stuart Parkinson and Vanessa Spedding; April 2006

12 scientists and engineers tell of their experiences in trying to follow an ethical career. The cases cover a wide range of issues relating to the environment, social justice, the military, and animal welfare.

 

Abolition of the AEBC

Letter by Eva Novotny, SGR, to Margaret Beckett, MP, Secretary of State for the Environment, 25 March 2005
 

Monsanto's GM maize cross NK603 x MON810

UK assessment report to market Monsanto's GM maize cross NK603 x MON810 in Europe
Text of submission to a public consultation by Eva Novotny, SGR, on 19 April 2004
 

Approval and withdrawal of GM crops in the UK: SGR Statement

SGR Statement, 15 April 2004
 

Decision on Commercial Growing of GM Maize

Article by Eva Novotny, 16 March 2004
 

Letter to Prime Minister re: 114 Biotechnology Scientists

Text of an SGR letter sent to the Prime Minister, The Right Honourable Tony Blair, MP, on 6 November 2003
 

GM Science Review: SGR Response to Review's First Report (Annex)

Annexe to the SGR Response to the 'GM Science Review - First Report' by Dr Eva Novotny, 5 November 2003