Overcoming lock-in of science-policy responses to reef heating

Abstract

Marine heating is the long-term climate-induced warming of oceans. Marked by more frequent, longer and widespread marine heatwave events, the severity of marine heating is generating catastrophic impacts on reef peoples and ecosystems. Here, we examine the range of policy solutions proposed to address reef heating. We find that, until recently, science-informed policy solutions were dominated by recommendations for more ‘inclusive adaptation’ and more ‘usable’ science. While these are laudable goals, such a narrow and locally-focused set of solutions suggests many researchers, policymakers, and funders have restricted their responses to the highly visible symptoms of reef heating, thereby lo..