Improving scientific impact: How to practice science that influences environmental policy and management

27Citations
Citations of this article
149Readers
Mendeley users who have this article in their library.

This article is free to access.

Abstract

Scientists devote substantial time and resources to research intended to help solve environmental problems. Environmental managers and policymakers must decide how to use the best available research evidence to prioritize actions leading to desired environmental outcomes. Yet decision-makers can face barriers to using scientific evidence to inform action. They may be unaware of the evidence, lack access to it, not understand it, or view it as irrelevant. These barriers mean a valuable resource (evidence) is underused. We outline a set of practical steps for scientists who want to improve the impact their research has on decision-making: (a) identify and understand the audience; (b) clarify the need for evidence; (c) gather “just enough” evidence; and (d) share and discuss the evidence. These are guidelines, not a strict recipe for success. But, we believe that regularly following these recommendations should increase the chance of scientific evidence being considered and used in environmental decision-making. Our goal is for this article to be accessible to anyone, rather than a comprehensive review of the topic.

Cite

CITATION STYLE

APA

Fisher, J. R. B., Wood, S. A., Bradford, M. A., & Kelsey, T. R. (2020, July 1). Improving scientific impact: How to practice science that influences environmental policy and management. Conservation Science and Practice. Blackwell Publishing Inc. https://doi.org/10.1111/csp2.210

Register to see more suggestions

Mendeley helps you to discover research relevant for your work.

Already have an account?

Save time finding and organizing research with Mendeley

Sign up for free