Biology Seminar Series

• In-person event

Seminar Speaker: Dr. Bereket Isaac

Date: Fri. April 1st, 2022 2:30pm-3:30pm

Title: Science Advisory Mechanism 

Abstract: The role of evidence within governmental settings and the role of scientists and other experts in delivering scientific and other evidence have been the subject of academic and policy discussions for over three decades. One important lesson drawn from such debates is that the mere supply or availability of evidence does not guarantee its incorporation into policy processes. There also needs to be a mechanism through which evidence is channeled to relevant decision points in useful form because “evidence does not speak for itself” (Cairney & Yamazaki, 2018, p. 253). With the increasing realization of the need to put in place a systematic approach towards incorporating evidence in decision-making, many national governments and international organizations have developed science advisory mechanisms. A Science Advisory Mechanism refers to the processes, structures and institutions through which governments and decision-makers solicit, receive and consider science and technology inputs to public policy development or decision-making in general. There are a number of principles, functions, and organizational channels that help guide science advisory mechanisms in producing science advice that is authoritative, objective and relevant. This exploratory study provides a brief survey of the various approaches to science advice and offers points for consideration in the context of evidence informed approaches to environmental stewardship.