A Scientific Perspective

Basics of the scientific perspective Problem = we don’t know enough about the problem Solution = get more information about it Information will allow us to identify problems an that will prompt a response Technology will provide means to drive down pollution intensity enough to overcome population and affluence contributions. Changes in values aren’t needed. “Information deficit” model: the obstacle to environmental protection is a lack of information. Does this ring true to you?

General points on science Values involved Science contributes to political process Uncertainty plays important role "Science in politics" as a participative process

Roles of Scientists Trend spotters Theory builders Theory testers Science communicators Applied policy analysts

Scientific Assessments Aggregate “State of the Science” reports Increasingly common on environmental issues Scientific but representative process Wield influence when Salient (relevant) Credible (expertise and trustworthiness) Legitimate (viewed as fair)

When do states take action on an environmental problem? Scientific knowledge Salient issue Costs and benefits Incidence of costs and benefits Political and institutional context

How SHOULD we prioritize action? Discussion