A new VLIZ report, commissioned by the Sustainable Blue Economy Partnership, maps out key opportunities and strategies to improve communication between marine scientists and policymakers. The publication Advancing knowledge exchange at the marine science-policy interface – An assessment of current tools and strategies offers a comprehensive four-chapter analysis of current best practices, including the role of knowledge brokers, participatory approaches such as citizen science and knowledge coproduction, and a practical toolbox for impactful and effective knowledge transfer.
At a time when marine ecosystems worldwide are under mounting pressure from climate change, biodiversity loss, pollution, and the unsustainable use of ocean resources, effective and efficient knowledge exchange between marine science and policy is more critical than ever.
The new repport Advancing knowledge exchange at the marine science-policy interface – An assessment of current tools and strategies, prepared by the Flanders Marine Institute and commissioned by the Sustainable Blue Economy Partnership, offers strategic insights and practical tools to strengthen communication and collaboration between marine scientists and decision-makers.
The report is particularly timely. During the last United Nations Ocean Conference in Nice in June 2025, the European Union adopted the ambitious European Oceans Pact, aiming to ensure a healthy and productive marine environment backed by strong scientific foundations. Simultaneously, the UN Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development (2021–2030) and the European Commission’s Mission Restore our Ocean and Waters are driving forward collaborative action for resilient and sustainable European seas and ocean.
Structured in four chapters, the report explores how the gap between marine science and policy can be bridged:
- Chapter 1 offers a broad exploration of existing knowledge exchange practices between science and policy;
- Chapter 2 highlights the added value of professional knowledge brokering at the science-policy interface;
- Chapter 3 investigates emerging concepts such as citizen science and knowledge coproduction as inclusive and integrative pathways to knowledge generation;
- Chapter 4 presents a hands-on toolbox to help scientists communicate their research effectively in a policy-relevant way.
The report emphasises that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. Effective science-policy exchange requires tailored strategies, mutual trust, and a nuanced understanding of both scientific and policy contexts while always keeping the human dimension in focus.
This publication positions itself as a guiding framework and a call to action for policymakers, scientists, and intermediaries to collaborate towards a sustainable, knowledge-driven future for our ocean.