Exploring the Intersection of Science and Policy in Marine Biodiversity
Marine biodiversity research is at the forefront of addressing the rapidly changing ocean environment, necessitating both scientific insights and socio-political considerations. As oceans face increasing pressure from human activities, the integration of knowledge from various disciplines is crucial for sustainable governance.
The emergence of marine biodiversity as a significant area of inquiry reflects its dynamic nature within environmental and ocean sciences. The field’s evolution has been marked by substantial financial investments, international collaborations, and the use of diverse methodologies to monitor and understand marine ecosystems. This scientific endeavor aims to provide objective data to inform policy-making and ensure ocean protection.
While the natural sciences have historically dominated marine research, there is a growing recognition of the importance of social sciences in understanding human interactions with oceanic environments. Scholars like Bennett (2019) emphasize the need to acknowledge the ‘peopled’ nature of the seas, highlighting how human actions both impact and are influenced by marine spaces.
Despite the essential role of social sciences, their contributions often remain marginal compared to natural sciences in marine studies. The underrepresentation may stem from the dominance of quantitative data analysis or the perceived lower cost of social science research. However, critical social science perspectives offer valuable insights into the socio-political dimensions of marine governance, challenging existing power structures and advocating for equitable management practices.
Recent scholarship has sought to bridge this gap by fostering interdisciplinary dialogues and addressing themes such as the politics of data, the role of infrastructure, and the influence of geopolitical forces on marine governance. For instance, Whittingham and McGarry (2024) explore how traditional mapping practices have shaped ocean governance, while Niner et al. (2024) reflect on knowledge hierarchies in marine research.
Furthermore, the unique challenges faced by landlocked nations in global ocean governance are highlighted by Sebuliba (2024), who advocates for more inclusive policy approaches. Tessnow-von Wysocki and Vadrot (2020) provide a systematic review of the Biodiversity in Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction treaty, emphasizing the need for transformative science-policy interfaces.
Efforts to integrate critical social science perspectives into marine biodiversity research are crucial for addressing complex governance challenges. As marine biodiversity governance continues to evolve, it is imperative to question who drives change, under what conditions, and for whom. By embracing diverse knowledge systems and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, the field can work towards more equitable and effective governance.
Ultimately, this research area aims to move beyond conventional approaches, inviting scholars to critically examine the frameworks shaping marine biodiversity governance. The integration of social sciences is key to understanding the human dimensions of marine environments and achieving transformative change.
Original Story at www.frontiersin.org