A comprehensive look at The Guardian’s efforts to tackle climate breakdown and protect the natural world
Four years ago, The Guardian made a bold commitment to address the most pressing crisis of our time: climate breakdown. Since then, the renowned news organization has dedicated itself to reporting on this emergency with unwavering determination, shedding light on its causes, consequences, and potential solutions. In this article, we will delve into The Guardian’s progress on six vital promises, including its renewed commitment to the natural world.
Powerful Environmental Reporting: A Catalyst for Change
The Guardian’s longstanding record of powerful environmental reporting has earned it a global reputation for quality and independence. With a team of dedicated climate, biodiversity, and climate justice reporters, the organization covers every angle of this urgent issue, collaborating with other media organizations to reach a wide audience. By providing accurate and factual journalism, The Guardian aims to counter misinformation and sensationalism while driving policy changes and influencing public opinion.
Highlighting the Human and Ecological Impact
Recognizing that marginalized communities often bear the brunt of climate and nature crises, The Guardian ensures that their voices are heard. Through interviews and on-the-ground reports, the organization sheds light on how extreme weather events affect people’s lives and livelihoods. Additionally, The Guardian connects these events to human-caused global heating, emphasizing the urgent need to reduce carbon emissions and protect the natural world.
Language Matters: From Biodiversity Crisis to Nature Crisis
In 2019, The Guardian introduced new language guidelines to accurately describe the environmental crises facing the world. Now, the organization has updated these guidelines to use the term “nature crisis” instead of “biodiversity crisis,” aiming for greater accessibility and relatability. The Guardian continues to highlight the interconnectedness of the climate and nature crises, holding countries and businesses accountable for their impact on the natural world.
Commitment to Emissions Reduction and Nature Conservation
The Guardian has set ambitious goals to reduce its emissions by two-thirds by 2030. To achieve this, the organization has undertaken a study to assess its impact on nature and has published the findings along with a plan of action. Strengthening procurement processes and providing guidance for sustainable purchasing are some of the initial steps taken. The Guardian’s progress in emissions reduction has been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative, ensuring accountability and transparency.
Divesting from Fossil Fuels: A Bold Move
In January 2020, The Guardian made the decision to refuse advertising from all fossil-fuel extractive companies, distinguishing itself as one of the few media publishers to take such a stand. The organization has also made significant progress in divesting its public portfolio from fossil fuels and is actively using its private portfolio to accelerate the transition to renewable energy. The Guardian’s endowment is participating in Nature Action 100, a global investor initiative driving corporate ambition and action.
Transparency and Accountability
The Guardian remains committed to transparency by publishing its latest sustainability and positive impact report, which details greenhouse gas emissions and the steps taken to reduce them. The organization saw a 30% reduction in emissions in the first two years of its 10-year plan. The results of the most recent emissions audit will be published in the coming months. As The Guardian continues to reduce its carbon footprint, it also plans to incorporate biodiversity into its emissions reduction plan.
Conclusion:
The Guardian’s commitment to addressing climate breakdown and protecting the natural world is unwavering. Through rigorous reporting, the organization has influenced policies and shaped public opinion on these urgent issues. By taking concrete actions to reduce its own emissions and divest from fossil fuels, The Guardian leads by example. As it continues to prioritize transparency and accountability, The Guardian sets a powerful precedent for other media organizations and inspires collective action to combat climate breakdown and safeguard the natural world.
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