Obstacles to scientific input in global policy

The United Nations identifies the drivers of the planetary crisis as climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution. Mitigation requires reliable science to inform decision-making. However, relevant research is often underutilized in policy planning and implementation because policy-making entities limit the ability of scientists to contribute to the process. The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) welcomes the participation of independent scientists whose work is free of conflict of interest, but acquiring eligibility is difficult for many scientists. Scientists affiliated with government-funded institutions can seek other modes of entry to UNEP meetings, such as joining national delegations or nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). However, participating in this manner undermines scientists’ ability to operate independently, given that their true affiliations might be obscured. In addition, because some NGOs might be branded as activists, the credibility of scientists’ policy recommendations may be questioned. A preferable option for scientists affiliated with government-funded institutions is to register through accreditation not directly with UNEP, but under multilateral environmental agreements, such as the Basel, Rotterdam, and Stockholm (BRS) Conventions. This option is available to everyone but is underused. Because the requirements are less stringent, scientists are more likely to gain eligibility. Institutions can also register through this process.