Twelve journalists attend P24’s second climate and ecology journalism workshop in Kuşadası

P24 hosted the second workshop in its climate and ecology journalism series on February 22 and 23 in Kuşadası. This two-day event, supported by the UK Embassy’s Bilateral Cooperation Programme, welcomed 12 journalists from eight different cities. The presentations aimed to equip participants with the skills needed to produce high-quality, in-depth news articles on climate and ecology, encouraging them to draw on their own experiences and move beyond standard formulas.

First held in Antalya, these workshops aim to equip journalists with the skills and knowledge to prioritize climate and ecology reporting while advancing their professional development and expertise in this vital field. Rather than covering these issues only when they go viral, it is crucial to maintain a steady and persistent focus. As academic Rob Nixon compellingly argues, ecological destruction constitutes a form of “slow violence” or “slow crime,” unfolding gradually over time. This underscores the need for journalists to embrace a patient, in-depth approach, moving beyond the fast-paced, surface-level coverage prevalent in Turkish media.

Elif Ünal’s presentation illuminated the core concepts of the climate crisis that underpin climate and ecology journalism. She stressed the importance of robust verification methods for assessing information and claims. Çiçek Tahaoğlu highlighted essential considerations regarding gender equality and animal rights that journalists should embrace when covering environmental issues. Finally, Özgün Özçer outlined innovative strategies for diversifying news writing, detailing techniques to ensure high-caliber reporting at every stage, from meticulous information gathering to compelling storytelling and diligent follow-up.

Following the presentations, participants from eight different cities engaged in a collaborative session, applying the approaches explored throughout the workshop.

Of the 24 journalists who attended both workshops, 11 will produce a total of 12 articles, which will be published on Gezegen, P24’s climate and journalism platform, with English translations available on P24’s English pages. Additionally, a comprehensive guide based on the workshop presentations will be released.

The content of this workshop is the sole responsibility of P24. The UK Embassy bears no responsibility for the content.