Aligning Horizon Scanning Approaches with Differing Needs and Topics at the Science–Policy Interface on Chemicals, Waste, and Pollution

Authors

• Gabriel Sigmund, Wageningen University
• Ricardo O. Barra, University of Concepción
• Michael G. Bertram, Swedish University of Agricultural Sciences
• Miriam L. Diamond, University of Toronto
• Alex T. Ford, University of Portsmouth
• İpek İmamoğlu, Middle East Technical University
• Jinhui Li, Tsinghua University
• Rainer Lohmann, University of Rhode IslandFollow
• Andreas Schäffer, RWTH Aachen University
• Martin Scheringer, ETH Zürich
• Kateřina Šebková, Masaryk University
• Maria Clara V. M. Starling, Federal University of Minas Gerais
• Noriyuki Suzuki, National Institute for Environmental Studies, Tsukuba, Japan
• Penny Vlahos, University of Connecticut
• Roland Weber, POPs Environmental Consulting
• Bryan W. Brooks, Baylor University

Document Type

Article

Date of Original Version

7-13-2026

Abstract

Knowledge on chemicals, waste, and pollution is shaped by geographical, financial, and disciplinary biases, which can cause blind spots for key emerging issues, including those relevant to low income countries and vulnerable communities. Scientists, practitioners, affected communities, and policy makers working in the areas of the newly established Intergovernmental Science-Policy Panel on Chemicals, Waste, and Pollution (ISP-CWP) have interest in identifying issues of potential and emerging relevance that currently escape their attention. Horizon scanning offers a critical tool to identify such issues. Here, we provide guidance on aligning horizon scanning approaches with differing objectives, audiences, and thematic scopes. We structure this guidance around three core dimensions: the topics addressed (“what”), the actors involved (“who”), and the methods applied (“how”). Drawing on existing horizon scanning efforts and foresight practices, we outline inclusive and transparent approaches suitable for prospective assessments across diverse contexts. Emphasis is placed on correcting epistemic asymmetries, integrating local and indigenous knowledge, and ensuring legitimacy for global governance processes. Strategically designed horizon scanning can support anticipatory policy, promote equity, and help steer collective action toward a livable planet for all.

Publication Title, e.g., Journal

Environmental Science and Technology

Volume

60

Issue

29

Citation/Publisher Attribution

Gabriel Sigmund, Ricardo O. Barra, Michael G. Bertram, Miriam L. Diamond, Alex T. Ford, İpek İmamoğlu, Jinhui Li, Rainer Lohmann, Andreas Schäffer, Martin Scheringer, Kateřina Šebková, Maria Clara V. M. Starling, Noriyuki Suzuki, Penny Vlahos, Roland Weber, Bryan W. Brooks; Aligning Horizon Scanning Approaches with Differing Needs and Topics at the Science–Policy Interface on Chemicals, Waste, and Pollution. Environ. Sci. Technol. 28 July 2026; 60 (29): 20174–20181. https://doi.org/10.1021/acs.est.6c06644

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.