Communication and Utilization of Science in Developing Countries

Abstract

Ecology has a major responsibility in solving environmental problems. In Mexico, scientific institutions need to contribute more to the practical use of their research findings, especially with regard to the rural management of ecosystems. Based on the framework of the Ecological Information System, two surveys were conducted among ecologists and nongovernmental organizations in Mexico. It was found that ecology has a great deal to contribute to environmental problem solving and that nongovernmental organizations function as links between science and rural producers, such as agriculturists, cattle ranchers, forest extractors, hunters, gatherers, and fishermen, although these interactions should be strengthened. Suggestions are made for the design of new forms of communicating science within scientific institutions that contribute to the utilization of scientific results.