Marine Policy Institute
| Why was the Marine Policy Institute at Mote created? |
| In 2003, as part of an overall strategic planning process, Mote Marine Laboratory’s Scientific Advisory Committee identified the need for a new policy component to complement the Research, Education and Aquarium divisions. The goal is to provide decision-makers with unbiased, credible and timely scientific information. The Institute will combine natural, physical marine science programs with social science research components. A key focus will be on two-way communication with policy makers, resource managers and stakeholder groups. |
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| What is Marine Policy Institute’s mission?
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| The
Marine Policy Institute’s primary mission is to improve the connection
between scientific research and society. This involves providing timely,
credible policy assessments and advice to decision-makers and
stakeholders. Analyses will include diverse aspects of an issue (marine
science, economics, societal components) and the ramifications of
potential solutions. The Institute synthesizes and integrates research
from a diverse range of scientific disciplines in addition to conducting
its own research on the societal aspects connected to marine science.
It also tries to stimulate better communication among different
stakeholder groups, translating and mediating wherever possible. How does the Marine Policy Institute differ from public outreach efforts? In addition to creating the interface between the natural and social sciences, the Institute’s main audience will be policy makers and resource managers. |
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| Why did Mote take on this role?
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| As an independent, nonprofit organization, Mote has long been recognized for its rigorous approach to science, so creating the Marine Policy Institute is a natural next step. Mote recognizes a real need for better ways to educate policy makers and the public about diverse aspects of pressing marine science issues and potential solutions. Such a need has been underscored in national reports (Pew Ocean Commission, U.S. Commission on Ocean Policy). Mote also strongly believes that its independent status can be an advantage to help the Policy Institute act quickly when new issues arise. |
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| Is the Marine Policy Institute an advocacy or lobbying organization? |
| No. The Marine Policy Institute’s goal is to provide answers to lawmakers about specific actions or policy. For instance, the Institute may look at an issue and provide information about likely outcomes, depending on various actions taken or not taken. The Institute will focus on synthesizing scientific studies and integrating them into policy analysis. It will not stake out policy positions as much as it will try to clarify risks, costs and benefits of policy options. |
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| Does the Marine Policy Institute take positions on policy issues?
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| Occasionally,
but it is not the Institute's main goal. If the Institute’s analysis
suggests that a particular policy is or will be especially harmful or
especially helpful, it will certainly say so. Mote believes that the
Marine Policy Institute can be most effective as an honest broker in
contested areas of science, rather than as a champion of a particular
policy agenda. |
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| How does Mote support this effort?
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The
New Amsterdam Charitable Foundation provided the initial start-up
funding. The Gulf Coast Community Foundation of Venice has also provided
key support for the Institute, which seeks grants from foundations,
agencies and individuals. In appropriate cases, the Institute may also
apply for state or federal dollars to support research projects or
programs. |
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About Us
Mote Marine Laboratory has been a leader in marine research since it was founded in 1955. Today, we incorporate public outreach as a key part of our mission. Mote is an independent nonprofit organization and has seven centers for marine research, the public Mote Aquarium and an Education Division specializing in public programs for all ages.
