Overcoming lock-in of science-policy responses to reef heating
Morrison, Tiffany H., Barnett, Jon, Gurney, Georgina G., Lau, Jacqueline, Barnes, Michele L., Cinner, Josh, Hettiarachchi, Missaka, and Cohen, Pip (2024) Overcoming lock-in of science-policy responses to reef heating. Marine Policy, 170. 106380.
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Abstract
Marine heating is the long-term climate-induced warming of oceans. Marked by more frequent, longer and widespread marine heatwave events, the severity of marine heating is generating catastrophic impacts on reef peoples and ecosystems. Here, we examine the range of policy solutions proposed to address reef heating. We find that, until recently, science-informed policy solutions were dominated by recommendations for more ‘inclusive adaptation’ and more ‘usable’ science. While these are laudable goals, such a narrow and locally-focused set of solutions suggests many researchers, policymakers, and funders have restricted their responses to the highly visible symptoms of reef heating, thereby locking in a particular science-policy pathway. Science-policy lock-in is concerning because it can popularise solutions that place the burden of response on to already vulnerable groups, avoid tackling deeper structural drivers of change, and overlook a wider range of possible solutions. In response, we showcase emerging research trends proposing a broader and more impactful agenda for reef science and policy. Such an agenda is explicitly designed to expand the policy solution space to secure a wider, more effective, and more just range of responses to ongoing marine heating for reef peoples and ecosystems.
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