UN Ocean Conference, Lisbon, Portugal
Credit: Richard Lilley

To deliver the large scale ecosystem restoration we are needing as a society call for bold regulations (Nature Restoration Law), but also prudent policies at the level of the member state. Scientists can help facilitate seagrass restoration programmes by providing the in-depth knowledge that is needed to address the complex issues that each countries policymakers are working on.

Knowledge generated from research can help policymakers to explore, understand, assess and appreciate policy options. Policies developed in this way are ‘evidence-based’ (based solely on scientific knowledge) or ‘evidence-informed’ (scientific knowledge combined with policymakers practical knowledge).

The development of policy advice based on research is referred to as ‘science for policy’. Linking policy and research is not an easy task. Researchers and policymakers often operate in completely different worlds, speaking ‘different languages’ and working to different timetables.

To make our science effective for informing policy, proactive cooperation between researchers and policymakers is crucial, as is a respect for our different roles and responsibilities.