Late Lessons from Early Warnings: Science, Precaution & Innovation

This 2nd report in the Late Lessons project, produced in collaboration with a broad range of external authors and peer reviewers, brings another 20 case studies to the 14 from Volume 1, covering a wide range of historical and current chemical and technological innovations. These are used to illustrate the dangers and lost innovation opportunities of neglecting the precautionary principle.

David will present a synthesis of lessons that could be applied to help maximise innovation whilst minimising harm.

Following the seminar, there will be a Q&A panel discussion on the implications of the research for the use of science and precaution in the design and direction of responsible innovation, involving David Gee, Professor Richard Owen (University of Exeter Business School) and Dr David Santillo (Greenpeace Research Laboratories).

The seminar and discussion are free and open to everyone, but spaces are limited to 60. To reserve a place, please e-mail m.oram@exeter.ac.uk

LUNCH PROVIDED

• David has worked for over three decades on occupational and environmental risk reduction with UK Trade Unions, Friends of the Earth and the European Environment Agency (EEA).
• Professor Richard Owen is Chair of Responsible Innovation at the University of Exeter Business School, acts as a strategic advisor to EPSRC and co-ordinates the RCUK Environmental Nanoscience Initiative.
• Dr David Santillo is a senior scientist with the Greenpeace Research Laboratories, based in the Innovation Centre at the Exeter University, and has nearly 20 years experience in environmental science and its relevance to policy.