In this timely and insightful book, Laura Maxim evaluates the use of socio-economic analysis (SEA) in the regulation of potentially carcinogenic, mutagenic, and toxic chemicals. Retracing the history of the use of cost-benefit analysis in chemical risk policies, this book presents contemporary discourse on the political success of SEA. Informed by empirical research, theoretical analysis, and professional experience in implementing EU Regulation on the Registration, Evaluation, Authorization and Restriction of Chemicals (REACH), Maxim proposes a new form of risk regulation called 'regulatory co-management', of which SEA has become a convenient tool. Chapters outline the controversy surrounding cost-benefit analysis in the US, the history of chemical regulation in Europe since 1967, and the construction and institutionalization of the European Chemicals Agency's (ECHA) socio-economic guidelines. The book concludes by analyzing legal, political, and ethical criticisms of the role of SEA in the authorization of chemicals such as lead chromate, chromium trioxide, and sodium dichromate. With direct relevance to ongoing debates about the revision of EU chemicals policy, this unique book will be essential reading for practitioners of socio-economic analysis and stakeholders involved in REACH. It will also be beneficial to academics and students of environmental governance and regulation, European politics and policy, and industrial economics.

While much has been written about the U.S. Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) program from both an institutional and a policy perspective, there remains a conspicuous void of general information about firms and research projects that are funded through the program. Providing a multi-dimensional picture of such firms and their projects, this incisive book is designed to help the reader understand in more depth the social benefits associated with the SBIR program. Albert N. Link and Martijn van Hasselt discuss the U.S. SBIR program from an institutional, empirical, and policy perspective, examining the policy transfer of the program to other countries, the transfer of technical knowledge through patents and scientific publications, and the technology transfer of commercialised research outputs. Exploring new program and project relationships, the book could serve as a springboard for future in-depth analyses about the SBIR program and its impact on economic and social matters. Forward-thinking in approach, Small Firms and U.S. Technology Policy provides a roadmap for future academic and policy research into the SBIR program, making it a valuable read for scholars and students of business and management studies. U.S. and international policymakers and business owners will also benefit from its discerning look into the SBIR program.