Understanding science-society interactions (SSI): diverse viewpoints from mountain biosphere reserves

Mitrofanenko, A., Thaler, T. ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-3869-3722, Radinger-Peer, V., Fiala, V., Penker, M., & Gugerell, K. (2025). Understanding science-society interactions (SSI): diverse viewpoints from mountain biosphere reserves. Journal of Integrative Environmental Sciences 22 (1) e2537242. 10.1080/1943815X.2025.2537242.

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Abstract

Addressing global challenges necessitates innovative forms of knowledge production such as various forms of science-society interactions (SSI), increasingly endorsed by international initiatives like the UNESCO Man and the Biosphere (MAB) Programme and its biosphere reserves. Despite strong policy support advocating for SSI characterized by knowledge co-production and local collaboration, scholarly exploration of SSI within biosphere reserves remains sparse. This study employs the semi-quantitative Q-method to identify viewpoints of SSI among representatives of mountain biosphere reserves and examine the extent to which these correspond to the international UNESCO MAB policies. Following the qualitative development of the statements and data collection, principal component analysis was conducted and revealed four distinct viewpoints. Viewpoint 1 emphasizes SSI as inclusive, collaborative endeavours, prioritizing the active involvement of diverse actors in decision-making. Viewpoint 2 frames SSI as science-driven, with a focus on environmental research, monitoring, and expert knowledge, reflecting historical conservation-focused biosphere reserve approaches. Viewpoint 3 emphasizes the relevance of SSI for knowledge integration and diffusion. Viewpoint 4 positions biosphere reserves as catalysts for SSI, dynamic platforms for fostering co-creation, research and innovation. The study illustrates that despite a strong conceptual basis, the nuanced and subjective nature of SSI presents significant challenges for researchers and other actors in understanding them. UNESCO policies guiding SSI implementation and co-creation in biosphere reserves may not align with diverse on-the-ground perspectives, highlighting the difficulty of translating policy into practice and the need for further exploration to develop effective, context-specific SSI initiatives.

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