Lecture Notes: The Role of Journalism in Climate Crisis Awareness

Introduction

• Vision of 2050: Challenges
  • Increased wildfires
  • Population growth
  • Higher temperatures
  • Extinct species list grows
• Climate Crisis Report by CNN
  • Potential displacement of 1.2 billion people by 2050

The Importance of Journalism

• Journalism as a tool against climate crisis
• Introduction of the term "climate literacy"
  • Definition: Understanding essential aspects of the Earth's system
  • Ability to distinguish credible sources from non-credible ones

Personal Journey to Climate Literacy

• Initial misconceptions about climate change
• Education in environmental sciences opened new perspectives
• Solutions discovered:
  • Renewable energy
  • Waste reduction
  • Alternatives to electric cars: biking, walking, public transport
  • Electrification of buildings and vehicles
  • Emphasizing the importance of reducing carbon emissions

Role of Media in Climate Awareness

• Need for more climate science coverage in media outlets
• Historical impact of literature on climate policy
  • Example: "Silent Spring" by Rachel Carson
    • Highlighted pesticide issues, led to banning of DDT
    • Contributed to the creation of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

Global Perspectives on Environmental Journalism

• Lack of environmental focus in certain countries (e.g., India)
• Industrialization prioritized over environmental issues
• Economic growth often harms the environment

Community Engagement and Action

• Promote climate literacy to create urgency
• Importance of environmental sections in newspapers
  • Local publications should cover community environmental issues
  • High school newspapers should have environmental features
  • National newspapers must include interactive environmental content

The Power of Books vs. News

• Many Americans are less likely to read environmental books
• Higher engagement with news: 70% of Americans read news
• Suggested content for environmental sections:
  • Air and water pollution
  • Deforestation
  • Renewable energy resources
  • Strategies to combat global warming

Conclusion

• Instilling hope and urgency in addressing climate change
• Importance of promoting climate issues through all media sources
• Call to action for engagement in climate literacy and journalism

Acknowledgment

• Thank you for listening!