Research about science and research about NGOs both have long pedigrees but have rarely connected. Yet it is increasingly accepted that, if science is to build a new civic relationship with society, debates about science must become increasingly diverse and participatory.  To facilitate this, it is important to know how science and messages about science are understood, used and communicated by a range of social actors.  Non-governmental organisations (NGOs) of all types have become important in this diverse process of scientific debate and communication.  Arguably, their role is pivotal because, in a climate of public scepticism and distrust of regulators and politicians, NGOs may, in comparison, provide a more trusted face.  In recognition of this, policy-makers and researchers are increasingly seeking legitimate and effective ways to involve NGOs in science-related debates and decisions.

 The Science in Society Programme is supporting innovative research in this area as part of its goal to explore and facilitate the changing relations between science and society. This interactive workshop will both disseminate results from the Programme and provide an opportunity for stakeholder groups to discuss how best to build this new civic relationship.  We will focus specifically on debates about environmental science and its consequences for public health. 

10.30 a.m.

Coffee and registration at the Business Centre at The Deep.

10:45

Alan Irwin (BrunelUniversity): Introduction: The changing framework of scientific governance

11:00
Presentations from Science in Society research teams:

• Sally Eden and Andrew Donaldson (University of Hull) How NGOs evaluate environmental science
• John Forrester and Laura Potts (Stockholm Environment Institute/University of York/YorkSt JohnCollege) Non statutory NGOs and their involvement in science-based policy’
• Julie Barnett (University of Surrey) The Environment Agency and local protest groups: science and risk amplification

11:45
Break-out session: problems and opportunities of NGO activism.

12:30 p.m
Buffet lunch

1:45
Andrew Jamison (Aalborg University,Denmark) Non-governmental Organizations and the shaping of green knowledge.

2:15
Tim Jenkins (Policy and Research Unit, Friends of the Earth) Science for sustainability: an NGO perspective

2:45
John Colvin (Social Policy Manager, Environment Policy Unit, Environment Agency) Learning to learn differently: the Environment Agency's role in local communities

3:15
Break-out session and coffee

4:15
Final session: future directions and action

4:45
Close and departure