What Do Emerging Technologies Mean for Economic Development?

Abstract

Emerging technologies are considered as enablers of sustainable economic development. Today, a number of leading countries in the world have rather precise view of the most important socio-economic and science and technology (S&T) priorities, which often include emerging technologies like nanotechnologies. The book provides a comprehensive overview on the variety of emerging technologies and nanotechnologies in particular, by considering them in technical terms as well as their prospective applications. Chapters in the book identify and describe existing and potential technology-based markets. Overall, the book stresses the interdisciplinary nature of emerging technologies. Complementary to the technology and market descriptions, methods like integrated roadmapping covering both end user markets and allied technological areas are introduced and explained through real case examples. Moreover, the book demonstrates integrated roadmaps for emerging technologies and develops policy measures and recommendations for companies to further promote these technologies. These measures are illustrated with the use of policy measures and roadmaps for implementation.