The CST
consulted widely on four options: (a) use existing scientific
networks; (b) establish a new scientific network; (c) use existing
intergovernmental scientific advisory mechanisms, such as the
IPCC or the recently established Intergovernmental Science-Policy
Platform on Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services (Perrings et al.,
2011); or (d) establish a new intergovernmental scientific panel on
land and soil (Thomas et al., 2012).