A rationale for science–policy interfaces

This paper aims at a better understanding of the justifications for science–policy interfaces, of the reasons for their growing importance in environmental governance, and of the theoretical and epistemological challenges they pose. I look at the intersections between science and policy to highlight that science and policy, far from being mutually exclusive and hermetic categories, are intersecting domains of human activity which are in co-evolution. Science–policy interfaces are defined as social processes which encompass relations between scientists and other actors in the policy process, and which allow for exchanges, co-evolution, and joint construction of knowledge with the aim of enriching decision-making. They are implemented to manage the intersection between science and policy. The theoretical questions which arise at this intersection are then explored, which allows for the identification of a series of 15 normative requirements for science–policy interfaces. The conclusion suggests that this normative content may provide guidance for the design, implementation, and evaluation of real-life science–policy interfaces, and identifies key methodological issues which need further theoretical research as well as practical experimentation.