Science-policy interaction: The case of the forest and forestry revitalisation plan in Japan

The objective of this study is to analyse the role of science in the Japanese forest policy process. Based on the analytical RIU (Research - Integration - Utilisation) model, this study shows that science matters. During the alternative specification phase of the Japanese Forest and Forestry Revitalisation Plan especially, scientific research results came into play to influence the design of alternatives. Contrary to these findings, no direct science-based policy advice could be found in the agenda-setting process. This study also identifies two different types of power relationships between science and political actors. Internal allies of science show relationships of actors who are actively involved in the research process and the utilisation of its results. External allies of science are actors who do not participate in the research but put external pressure on other actors to seek cooperation with science and adopt science-based solutions. As a result, this study shows that the RIU model can be a powerful analytical framework to analyse dynamic interactions between science and the forest policy process.