How can all the great research and science taking place, including citizen science initiatives, begin to translate into effective policy and  practice?

 

The International Coral Reef Symposium is a meeting of many of the world’s foremost coral scientists and researchers which takes place every four years. In June, 2016, the conference was held in Hawaii. According to an article in the International Society for Reef Studies’ journal Reef Encounter, the past year has seen the worst ever coral reef bleaching in the main islands of Hawaii. This raises an important question: If there is so much science and research dedicated to corals and coral reefs, how is it that the situation just seems to be going from bad to worse?

 

What lessons can be learnt from the experience of the conference? As well as hearing from some of those who attended the conference, in this section we will highlight some examples of projects or initiatives which have had some success in the transition from solid research and experience in the field through to changes in policy at local, regional or national level.

 

“Let’s break the mould of academic competition, let’s think about ways to make the best use of the resources we have and let’s all work together to move the momentum forward…”

Ruth Gates (Gates Coral Lab)

 

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A key goal of the conference is to explore the relationships between science and policy. According to the Symposium website, the conference provides a platform to:

 

Increase global knowledge and interest in coral reefs, including sustainable use and conservation strategies;

Showcase successful science, conservation and management efforts;

Develop collaborations and partnerships to increase international capacity to address coral reef issues;

Raise global awareness of reef degradation and possible solutions by extensive promotion in the media.

Below are just a few examples of organisations and scientists that are helping to bridge the gap between science and policy.