May 2012

Kerry and Juliette have had a busy Spring collecting and analysing the many fascinating interviews linked to case studies of the NEA, WFD and deer-management. We have now compiled a draft set of recommendations for ideas for improving science policy communication, which will be discussed at a workshop in June. Please get in touch if you’d like to know more.

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November 2011

The aim of WP2 is to understand the science-policy dialogue with regards to the role of biodiversity in underpinning livelihoods and ecosystem services.

Much of our work in 2011 focussed on identifying areas of decision-making where gaps between scientific knowledge and policy application were perceived as important. Having spoken to a number of scientists and policy-makers, and written 10 mini-reviews, we selected our final three case studies. These case studies operate at different scales, and focus on both environmental and non-environmental policy. The case studies are:

• the Water Framework Directive
• the UK National Ecosystem Assessment
• deer management in Scotland.

Over the last couple of months we’ve undertaken over 30 interviews with scientists and policy-makers involved in these case studies. We’re currently finishing off the interviews and will start analysing our data in January 2012. We’re planning on holding a workshop in June 2012 to refine recommendations on steps to improve communication between policy-makers and scientist, and increase the recognition of relevant knowledge in policies. As soon as we have a draft programme and a date, we’ll let you know.

Contact: Juliette Young