An in-depth look at The Guardian’s efforts to report on and address the climate and nature emergencies
Four years ago, The Guardian made a bold commitment to tackle the pressing issue of climate breakdown. Recognizing the urgency of the crisis, the renowned news organization pledged to report relentlessly on the causes, consequences, and solutions of the climate emergency. In addition, The Guardian vowed to hold governments and businesses accountable and to examine its own practices to ensure alignment with its mission. Now, The Guardian provides an update on the progress made on these vital promises, with a renewed focus on the natural world.
1: Powerful Environmental Reporting
The Guardian’s longstanding record of powerful environmental reporting has established it as a trusted source of information on climate and nature emergencies. With more than a dozen dedicated reporters across the globe, The Guardian covers every angle of this urgent issue. The organization collaborates with other media outlets to reach a wider audience and ensures its reporting remains independent and free from commercial or political influence.
2: Impact on People and Species
Recognizing that marginalized communities often bear the brunt of climate and nature crises, The Guardian ensures their voices are heard. By interviewing those most affected and reporting on extreme weather events, The Guardian highlights the human and environmental toll of these emergencies. The organization also delves into the latest science attributing these events to human-caused global heating, emphasizing the need for urgent action.
3: Language and Terminology
The Guardian understands the importance of accurate and accessible language in conveying the gravity of the climate and nature crises. In 2019, the organization introduced new language guidelines to describe these crises more accurately. This year, The Guardian updated its terminology, using the term “nature crisis” instead of “biodiversity crisis.” By making these connections clear, The Guardian holds countries and businesses accountable for their impact on the natural world.
4: Reducing Environmental Impact
The Guardian recognizes that its environmental impact extends beyond greenhouse gas emissions. In a recent study, the organization assessed its impact on nature and developed a plan of action. Steps include strengthening procurement processes to prioritize sustainability and reducing greenhouse gas emissions by two-thirds by 2030. The Guardian’s commitment to reducing its impact on nature aligns with its goal to create a more sustainable future.
5: Divesting from Fossil Fuels
As part of its commitment to decouple its business and finances from fossil fuel extractive companies, The Guardian refused advertising from such companies in 2020. Since 2015, the organization has almost entirely eliminated its exposure to fossil fuels in its public portfolio. The Guardian also actively participates in initiatives like Nature Action 100 to drive corporate ambition and action towards renewable energy use.
6: Transparency and Accountability
The Guardian remains committed to transparency by publishing its latest sustainability and positive impact report. The report details the organization’s greenhouse gas emissions and the steps taken to reduce them. With emissions already reduced by 30% in the first two years of its 10-year plan, The Guardian intends to continue incorporating biodiversity into its emissions reduction strategy. The organization’s B Corp status and improved overall score reflect its dedication to governance, employment policies, and environmental performance.
Conclusion:
The Guardian’s unwavering commitment to reporting on and addressing the climate and nature emergencies is evident in its relentless coverage and impactful journalism. By amplifying the voices of those most affected, holding governments and businesses accountable, and taking steps to reduce its own environmental impact, The Guardian sets an example for other news organizations and emphasizes the urgency of action. As the world grapples with the challenges of the climate and nature crises, The Guardian’s progress serves as a reminder that change is possible, and that collective efforts are crucial in creating a sustainable future.
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