Issues on Precautionary Principle in the “Precautionary Measures” for Nanomaterials

Abstract

The “Precautionary Measures” guideline for nanomaterials introduced by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare in 2008 is a groundbreaking policy for the Japanese government in the sense that it thematically applies precautionary principle probably for the first time in Japan. The problems of this guideline, however, lie with its evidence, content and process, which affected nanomaterial products and business in a negative way and also raised public awareness of risk. This paper examines some of these problems are rooted at the concept of precautionary principle to be formulated in a risk governance framework. For this it argues that participatory models and frameworks of risk and precautionary governance could fix the flaw in the existing risk assessment and management system.