In the landscape of today’s scientific research and how this resonates with society, the three interconnected environmental crises of climate change, nature, land and biodiversity loss, and pollution are complex challenges deeply intertwined with societal values, economic systems, and cultural contexts. As post-normal science issues, they require policy responses that bridge scientific knowledge with societal needs, addressing both technical complexities and diverse stakeholder perspectives.
Environmental policy and law should work cohesively in addressing these issues. Effective, coherent and forward-thinking environmental policies are indispensable building blocks to an effective environmental governance system that advances progress towards sustainable development, ensures a healthy environment for present and future generations and makes global environmental goals and commitments a reality. When science is appropriately used to inform policymaking, it therefore enables the realization of a science-policy interface (SPI), acting as a catalyst for transformative change.
UNEP supports Member States and stakeholders in shaping effective environmental policies by strengthening science-policy interfaces, enhancing policy coherence, and adapting to evolving environmental and development priorities. This is achieved through:
- Supporting Member States in advancing science-policy interfaces through developing tools, methodologies, and institutional frameworks that enhance the uptake of scientific knowledge in policymaking.
- Providing technical assistance and capacity-building initiatives to help countries design and implement robust policy and legal frameworks to address the three planetary crises.
- Promoting integrated and synergistic approaches to environmental governance that align climate action, biodiversity conservation, and pollution management for maximum impact.
