Abstract:
Is a transdisciplinary approach feasible? Let’s discuss and uncover the underlying conditions and power dynamics that promote inclusive and participatory environmental governance. The speaker will share ideas on bridging the gap between transdisciplinary knowledge production and diplomacy to facilitate effective and equitable policy-making and technology transfer.

Summary of Conversations

The speaker highlighted the importance of transdisciplinary research in addressing global challenges, particularly in the context of international science policy and diplomacy related to global environmental change. The discussion emphasized the need to move beyond traditional, siloed scientific approaches to more inclusive models that incorporate diverse disciplines and non-academic knowledge. Examples included policy recommendations for lithium supply chain justice and mitigating plastic pollution, showcasing collaborations across the Americas. The discussion highlighted the necessity of adapting to geopolitical shifts and trends while prioritizing evidence-informed policy and action to address shared global challenges.

Take Away Messages/ Current Status of Challenges

• Traditional, siloed approaches to science are insufficient for addressing complex global challenges.
• Geopolitical shifts and trends significantly impact international science policy and diplomacy.
• Global South faces disproportionate burdens and risks from climate change, exacerbated by global North policies.
• There are power imbalances and disparities in infrastructure, talent, and capacity between the global North and South.
• Integrating AI into global change research presents both opportunities and risks, requiring careful consideration of its impacts.
• A significant intention-action gap exists between policy intentions and actual behavior of stakeholders.
• Skills needed for effective multilateral, multicultural, and transdisciplinary collaboration are lacking.
• Current research agendas may not adequately address the urgent needs of evidence based policy and action.

Recommendations/Next Steps

• Promote and finance transdisciplinary research initiatives that address global challenges through inclusive and collaborative approaches.
• Strengthen science diplomacy efforts to ensure scientific collaboration continues despite international relations tensions.
• Develop policies that consider both the extraction and disposal phases of resources, promoting distributive justice.
• Incorporate behavioral frameworks into policy development to address the intention-action gap and promote effective outcomes.
• Invest in capacity building programs that develop essential transdisciplinary leadership skills, such as teamwork, communication, and conflict management.
• Establish platforms and centers that facilitate collaboration between researchers and policy practitioners to address emerging technologies and issues.
• Elevate research findings and policy recommendations to national and regional agendas through strategic communication and advocacy.
• Encourage researchers to actively build skills individually and within their networks to adapt to geopolitical shifts and promote evidence-informed action.