Replies to This Discussion

Permalink Reply by Catalin Farcas on November 16, 2010 at 17:39

I'd never say that we have enough science reported. But, as everyone knows, the answers depend on every media type. In a 1 min story it's really difficult to put everything you'd like:))

Permalink Reply by Fotis Kafarakis on November 16, 2010 at 19:05

In our TV Newsroom (and in everyone else's , I guess...) when we decide to produce a story for the environment we always ask for scientists' interviews. But , usually, scientists talk too much, use 'difficult' language and a huge amount of numbers... Then we're looking for just-a-simple-answer for our audience or readers.... So it's up to us, reporters, editors or correspondents, to make our stories documented and understandable at the same time... Not so easy, don't you think?

Permalink Reply by Rosie Charalambous on November 16, 2010 at 20:21

The science is the basis for all reporting on climate change; the challenge is to communicate the science in everyday language so that the audience understands the basics - and hopefully some of the nuances and intricacies too - without losing interest or getting turned off by jargon. Therein lies the essence of good reporting.

Permalink Reply by Irene Quaile on November 17, 2010 at 11:14

There is no single answer to this. I agree with Catalin that we have to differentiate between media type and format. The real challenge at the moment is to keep the subject in the news and in the public eye. As we get ready for Cancun, there is a striking difference between the mood this time last year and the mood now. The other question is whether focussing on science doesn't give people who are reluctant to take any action or make any changes to their lifestyle an "excuse" to carry on business as usual, hiding behind the claim that nothing is really proven and hoping there might be some scientific results that will give them justification to stay complacent.
By the way, do you colleagues in this group blog? Maybe there would be some interest in linking our climate blogs. Mine is at http://blogs.dw-world.de/ice-blog also to be found on our dw environment page www.dw-world.de/environment.

Permalink Reply by Diana Lungu on November 17, 2010 at 11:52

This is great initiative dear Irene to share your blog posts... I hope everybody else who runs one will do the same...

I must agree with you that the mood this year for Cancun is so different than last year... as always looks like politics is running the show...

I would love to hear more contributions from other members here...

Permalink Reply by Diana Lungu on November 18, 2010 at 12:50

The Media Has Failed in Covering the Climate Crisis, says Al Gore in his recent blog post. He refers to a new report from Oxford University’s Reuters Institution for the Stu....

"Our media has a responsibility to educate the public on issues affecting the planet. Covering the climate crisis only as a political issue shields from public view the vital scientific and moral elements of the debate", he concludes.

Permalink Reply by Irene Quaile on November 18, 2010 at 14:11

Another politician blaming "the media"? Sure, Mr Gore, we have a huge responsibility. But the politicians who rule the world have got to get things moving on this. And PLEASE differentiate. "The Media" are very diverse. I agree, the debate has huge and vital scientific and moral elements. But that can't be allowed to distract attention from the urgent need for political action.