Policies are often cyclical in that emerging problems are addressed with the formulation of policies, followed by their implementation and subsequent evaluation. These stages in the policy cycle can be formalized with assigned roles and processes, and consist of many other sub-stages. For example, the policy formulation stage can include problem definition, identification of alternatives, consultations and public hearings, and finally, a decision on the chosen policy.

Instruments used by governance bodies at all scales to implement their policies. Environmental policies, for example, could be implemented through tools such as legislation, economic incentives or dis-incentives, including taxes and tax exemptions, or tradable permits and fees.

Approaches and techniques based on science and other knowledge systems that can inform, assist and enhance relevant decisions, policy making and implementation to protect nature, thereby promoting nature's benefits to people and a good quality of life.

Approaches and techniques based on science and other knowledge systems that can inform, assist and enhance relevant decisions, policymaking and implementation at local, national, regional and global levels to protect nature, thereby promoting nature's benefits to people and a good quality of life.

Approaches and techniques based on science and other knowledge systems that can inform, assist and enhance relevant decisions, policy making and implementation at local, national, regional and global levels to protect nature, thereby promoting nature's contributions to people and a good quality of life.

Approaches and techniques based on science and other knowledge systems that can inform, assist and enhance relevant decisions, policy making and implementation at local, national, regional and global levels to protect nature, thereby promoting nature's benefits to people and a good quality of life.

see intervention scenarios.

Policy options are defined as potential policies in terms of their ability to achieve the stated policy goals. Chapter 6 present the range of policy options available to support the sustainable use of wild species, at a range of spatial scales (local, national, international), and across five key practices (fishing, gathering, terrestrial animal harvesting, logging, and non-extractive practices). Four groups of policy instruments are explored: i) legal and regulatory, ii) economic and financial, iii) social and information based, and iv) rights-based and customary instruments.

A combination of policy instruments which has evolved to influence the quantity and quality of biodiversity conservation and ecosystem service provision in public and private sectors.

Structured activities by which decision-making institutions attempt to realize or achieve a decision to support, effect or prevent social change expressed by a policy addressing an identified challenge or opportunity.