Environmental consultants, knowledge brokering and policy-making: a case study. (2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Sardo, Ana Margarida; Weitkamp, Emma
• Is Part Of: International journal of environmental policy and decision making. Volume 2:Number 3(2017)
• Page Start: 221
• Page End: 235
• Publication Date: 2017
• Subjects: environmental consultants -- policy-making -- knowledge brokers -- mediation -- consultation; Environmental policy -- Periodicals; 333.7
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1752-6906

Abstract

This small-scale exploratory study examined the role of environmental consultants in the policy-making process using one European country (Portugal) as a case study. The study focused particularly on the role of environmental consultants as knowledge brokers, providing scientific expertise to national and local government policy-makers. The research question and other topics were explored through in depth interviews and an online questionnaire. The data indicate that in Portugal environmental consultants act as knowledge brokers, providing policy-makers with access to scientific information and encouraging its use; this information feeds into the policy process at the formulation, implementation, assessment and review stages. They also play other roles such as acting as financial, legal and technical advisors.