Future science-policy agendas and partnerships for building a sustainable society in harmony with nature

Abstract

The Intergovernmental Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (IPBES) has identified the development of scenarios as a key component of its Global Assessment. As part of the project entitled “Future scenarios and governance of social-ecological systems in the Asia–Pacific (AP) region through enhancing synergy between indigenous and local knowledge and scientific knowledge,” we conducted an online questionnaire survey to identify key science-policy agendas, and collaborations among science, policy, and society in the AP region. The results demonstrated the importance of traditional knowledge in ecosystem management as well as collaboration between policy makers and researchers. The findings will be useful inputs when IPBES and governments develop bottom-up and participatory scenarios and pathways that can lead to sustainable futures.