In September 2024, RESPIN conducted an insightful workshop with EU policy makers to better understand the scientific needs and current barriers to taking up existing scientific knowledge.  22 participants from different policy making platforms gathered to share their experiences, insights, and ideas on bridging the gap between science and policy. 

 

The workshop was kicked off by two keynote speakers. First  IPBES expert Hien Thu Ngo provided an overview of the IPBES processes, history and the joint IPBES-IPCC summary workshop. IPCC expert Carolina Adler gave an overview of previous IPCC assessments, the processes involved and gave anecdotes on how delivering information to the right people at the right time is often a powerful enabler of change. These insights, in addition to an overview of the project, were the basis for the continuation of the discussions. 

In three groups, the participants discussed the following key themes and related topics:

 

Early takeaways suggest that scientific input needs to be better tailored to policymakers’ needs, with timing being a crucial factor for integrating science into decision-making. It was highlighted that there is a language barrier amongst scientists and between scientists and policy makers, that limits the effective uptake of information. These findings will help shape the development of the upcoming Science Service, which aims to provide accessible and comprehensive scientific information to the public, making the latest research and discoveries available to everyone. The day wrapped up with a collaborative lunch, offering further opportunities for participants to network and plan future collaborations. A final report summarising the workshop’s outcomes will be available on this website soon. Stay tuned for updates!