Policy development and decision-making require robust science-based evidence to address societal challenges. Scientific data and analysis are also crucial for drafting or updating regulation to ensure the most relevant, and state-of-the-art methodologies are used to support effective laws and procedures. Although some mechanisms are being created to provide knowledge-based advice to policymakers, the pathways for scientists to engage and support the process of decision-making and regulation development are often unclear. Therefore, there is a need among the scientific community to share experiences and best practices to enrich decision-making at local, regional-national and European/international levels.
This session will demonstrate examples of successful, as well as lessons learnt from ineffective, engagement of geoscientists in policy design, regulation design, decision-makings and other actions in a political context, to deliver on societal benefits beyond academia. Challenges, main barriers encountered and strategies to overcome them will be examined.
The session will also showcase the role of stakeholders working with political institutions and how engagement with the scientific community can trigger fruitful deliberations between science, policy and society.
The session also aims at showcasing the outcome of evidence-based regulations addressing societal challenges, such as climate change effects or sustainable use of natural resources.
This session is aimed at researchers, policymakers and those working at the interface, from all career stages and disciplines. It will provide a space for questions and discussion, along with ample networking opportunities, including during the proposed associated Splinter Meeting during EGU 2026 week.