APECS Webinars

The bridge between science and policy is a growing focus in our society. Early career researchers are often asked to frame their science in a policy-relevant format but are not equipped with the knowledge or tools they need to effectively accomplish this. This webinar series aims to ignite conversation about this important subject. Our second webinar will focus on defining the science/ policy interface and outline the role of science in developing ecosystem-based Arctic policies. Northern communities are in a state of flux facing multiple political and environmental pressures that lead to a complex policy landscape. Historically science has played a key role in Arctic policy and decision making. Trans-boundary scientific research and collaborations have been on the main agenda of the Arctic Council, an international ‘soft- power’ governance body. International science has had a decision-shaping influence at the Arctic Council, which uses its scientific knowledge to inform its policy-frameworks. These international policy frameworks set the stage for decision-making at national and regional levels. However, policies in northern Canada face added regional pressures from development, climate change, devolution, and land claims agreements. It is important to recognize that Canada’s northern communities demand new perspectives in policy that take a community-centered approach based on science that is relevant and accessible. In this webinar our speakers will outline some important science policy documents that will help young scientists understand how to conceptualize the relevance of their science to regional, national, and international policy priorities. 1) Marc-André Dubois coordinates the WWF Global Arctic Programme’s engagement with the Arctic Council and other international organisations. He has a background in political science with degrees from Université de Montréal and the Institut d`Études Politiques de Lille. His current research interests lie in the field of circumpolar international governance and the interface of science and policy. 2) Bob Van Dijken has lived in Canada’s north for the last 33 years and is currently working for the Council of Yukon First Nations as Director of Circumpolar Relations. Bob has a BSc in Physical Geography and has spent many years working in environmental consulting, science communication and bridging the science and policy divide.