Print3.1 Policy Implications
Research Impacts Policy
Scientific research can and often does impact public policy in a manner of ways. Understanding that one’s research may be applicable to informing public policy decisions or be subject to regulatory mechanisms is crucial. There are many three main intersections between policy and research that need to be considered, such as policy and regulation about the scientific research and/or technology (policy of science, or science policy); scientific research and technological capacity often informs crucial decision-making processes, such as determination of risks and evaluation of responses (science for policy); and, institutional policies in support of funding and conducting research (research management policy).
Regulatory Implication
Energy and Environment Systems present some significantly challenging scenarios for current and future generations. Further, this type of research is often used to direct regulatory policies, such as in the choice of national sustainable energy strategies and analysis of contingencies, etc.
Application Implications
Energy and environmental systems need to be co-guided to assure public and environmental safety as well as effective production in meeting demands. How, where, and when energy systems research will be applied will often come under the consideration of public officials and agency specialists.
"Science is organized knowledge. Wisdom is organized life." -Immanuel Kant
Research for Decision-making
Scientific research is often put to use in decision-making processes. Further, science often informs society about risks that need to be avoided. Of course, much debate can arise from what to do about this new knowledge, such as has often been the case with climate change. Analyses, information, data, expert opinion, reports to congressional commissions, models, projections, solutions, new directions for economic development, etc., all require considering implications.