Planning and Environmental Innovation Lab

Disagreements persist over how to increase scientific evidence uptake in biodiversity conservation policymaking. Communication experts recommend using dialogical and participatory practices over linear dissemination of research outcomes. Current science-policy interface scholarship, however, lacks insights from theoretical developments in science communication, which support scientists in implementing a full range of communication goals, including promoting, informing, persuading, and co-creating actionable knowledge. To fill this gap, we use a three-stage approach: theory development of the Science-Policy Interface Communication for the Environment (SPICE) Actionable Framework based on interdisciplinary literature; mapping recommendations for improving biodiversity-science uptake through a rapid review; and an analysis of recommendations using the SPICE Framework to demonstrate usefulness. The SPICE Framework consists of five models: Policy-oriented Dissemination; the more personalized Policymaker-oriented Dissemination; effective two-way Dialogue; Collaboration and Participation in creating knowledge together; and a novel Supporting model focusing on building relations and trust. Reviewing the literature using the SPICE Framework reveals gaps in guidance on presenting biodiversity loss as a policy-relevant issue. Dissemination is supported by many more recommendations than either dialogue or participation. Practices convey strategies for tailoring messages to policymakers' interests and nurturing relationships of trust, but overlook the hostile political environments that scientists frequently encounter. As a result, scientists may lack tools to effectively promote dialogue and collaboration or communicate successfully within confrontational and partisan political environments, particularly when addressing conservation policy. This study highlights the need for interdisciplinary theoretical frameworks to support robust recommendations for science-policy communicators, with a particular focus on sustainability and environmental policy.