The Science‐Natural Resource Policy Relationship: How Aspects of Diffusion Theory Explain Data Selection for Making Biodiversity Management Decisions

Abstract

This study extends a previous project which examined the salience of neo-institutional theory in explaining how data are selected for use in making and implementing biodiversity management decisions. Our prior findings prompted us to examine the selection of data from federal, state or local, and nongovernmental sources using aspects of diffusion theory. We argue that diffusion theory also possesses explanatory value regarding the identification and selection of data within a natural resource agency. We empirically test our theory by analyzing original data collected from a 2007 survey of U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service field offices. We find that drivers of diffusion identified by previous research are explanatory of how data are selected. Specifically, perceptions of other field offices' data selection procedures and collaboration with interest or advocacy groups aid in explaining field office data selection. The results enhance our understanding of the science-natural resource policy relationship.

The diffusion of climate policies among German municipalities

“…Current debates focus much more on context for the diffusion processes concerning preferences and ideology of decision-makers, the institutional structures, the policy design itself or policy expertise and scientific advice (see e.g. Gerlach et al 2013). After all, the dimensions of "proximity" between interdependent units are diverse and interactive.…”

Polymers Recycling: Upcycling Techniques. An Overview

“…In this way, the COVID-19 pandemic has greatly complicated the contamination by plastic products being a trigger in the production and that of these materials (34). At the same time, as a result of this plastic crisis, a large number of new decisions have been opened that will allow the degree of urgency and capacity to respond to this crisis (35), so that both businessmen and politicians decide to opt for the reduction of plastic consumption (36,37).…”

Note from the Editors

“…She also shows that the crisis likewise created space for those against reducing plastic consumption (industrial stakeholders and policy entrepreneurs) to influence policy makers to alter their stance on plastic-related matters-even if only temporarily in some cases. Given the transboundary nature of plastic pollution, this study is timely indeed and provides a powerful addition to P&P's already full list of articles on environmental politics, policy, and its relation to crisis and response (see e.g., Gerlach et al, 2013;Neill & Morris, 2012).…”