Investigating interference in the environmental sciences and studies in Canada: Defining the phenomenon and measuring its prevalence and impacts

Abstract

When scientific researchers are sufficiently resourced to conduct research and communicate their findings, the knowledge produced can underpin technology and policy outcomes related to the environment and society. However, interference with the research process and sharing of results has been observed in several countries, particularly for environmental researchers. This study reviews the history of “interference in science” in Canada and offers a first definition of this term. To understand the prevalence and impacts of interference, researchers in the environmental studies and sciences in Canada were surveyed. The results indicate that these researchers, as of 2021, seem overall better able to conduct and communicate their work than in the past decade. However, ongoing interference in their scientific pursuits and communication remains cause for concern. After documenting consequences of interference in science communication, democratic governance, and the well-being of researchers’ themselves, I recommend solutions to limit interference and improve knowledge mobilization.