Steering the future of advanced materials

Policymakers aiming to foster and govern emerging technologies may wish to develop anticipatory capacities and strategic intelligence to inform and future-proof their efforts. This report delves into how these approaches are being mobilised, using advanced materials as a policy-relevant case given their regular inclusion in critical emerging technology lists and the rise of national strategies to promote their research to meet strategic goals. A series of case studies from across the globe are brought together to illustrate practical applications in this field of anticipatory coordination efforts, upstream governance and “by-design” approaches, and strategic intelligence tools. Insights from this report aim to support policymakers and technology assessment practitioners seeking to develop or update national strategies for emerging technologies like advanced materials to accelerate innovation and further develop national ecosystems.