This article is composed of three independent commentaries about the state of ICON principles (Goldman et al. 2021) in Science and Society section and discussion on the opportunities and challenges of adopting them. Each commentary focuses on a different topic: Citizen Science; Collaboration across Sciences; and Education Policy. Scientific discoveries, rapid scientific and technological advancements, and solutions benefit society. However, many societal challenges require evolved frameworks and measures to address the 21st-century complex problems. The ICON (Integrated, Coordinated, Open, and Networked) approach to advance science in society formulates the interdisciplinary perspectives and coordinated network that provide solutions to the complex issues in our society. The three independent commentaries embody ICON processes, and further presents challenges and untapped opportunities in these broad areas that can create a better understanding of the impact of science on society.