Improving science and policy in managing land-based sources of pollution

Abstract

Detailed scientific information about degraded systems and impacts of land-based sources of pollution [LBSP] including information about accelerating costs caused by degradation are readily available. Conveying and bringing this information to decision-makers and the public requires both efficient transmission of findings and institutional support for decision-making. In 2010 the Global Environment Facility [GEF] developed a medium-sized project on ‘Enhancing the use of science in International Waters projects to improve projects results׳ to examine the role of science and technical analysis in transboundary water projects. This article follows up an analysis of the LBSP working group. The emphasis was on examining the science-policy interface in over forty projects dealing with LBSP. The analytical framework combined descriptive [scientific component-incorporation into project design and implementation], evaluative [extent of use of analytical tools] and prescriptive elements. Best practices for management of LBSP were identified. The prescriptive analysis discussed the importance of enhancing communication among scientists and policy makers. The authors conclude that a common framework [here the DPSIR, further developed as DPSWR approach] should be applied across projects to enable collective framing of the key environmental issues and working towards informal adaptive management.