From dipping my toes to diving in head-first: Experiences communicating science to inform ocean and climate policy

Background/Question/Methods

The need to connect ecological knowledge and societal decision making has never been greater.  Coastal and ocean ecosystems are being depleted and degraded by a myriad of stressors, including habitat destruction, pollution, invasive species, and climate change, leading to the loss of valuable ecosystem services on which humans depend.  In addition, U.S. citizens and policy makers are working to understand and prepare for the impacts of climate change on their communities, ecosystems, and livelihoods.  These complex environmental and societal challenges require innovative, interdisciplinary approaches and solutions grounded in best-available science.  How can ecologists more effectively communicate and translate their knowledge to inform decisions?  How can we ensure that the science we conduct is relevant to policy makers?  I will describe my own experiences connecting climate and ocean science to policy at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) through NOAA programs and initiatives, as well as interagency efforts, including the Interagency Climate Change Adaptation Task Force, the U.S. Global Change Research Program, the National Climate Assessment, and the National Ocean Policy.

Results/Conclusions

Science is only one of many factors considered during decision-making processes.  However, it is critical that science be at the table in order to inform policy planning and implementation.  Ecologists can gain a voice in the policy process through a diversity of venues, such as immersion experiences (e.g. science policy fellowships), communication and media training, public comment periods for relevant policies, and serving on scientific advisory boards and panels for Federal agencies.  Scientists must become “multi-lingual,” translating their knowledge clearly to diverse and non-technical audiences.  Complex environmental challenges require improved integration across physical, natural, and social sciences.  In addition, sustained interactions between scientists and decision makers (e.g. natural resource managers, elected officials) are necessary for improving the accessibility and utility of ecological knowledge.  These partnerships will help to ensure that ecologists understand and address the information needs of decision makers.  While inspiring progress has been made, much work remains in improving the communication and integration of science into policy.