Experts Urge Media to Spotlight Climate Change: Why Changing the Narrative Matters

DHENKANAL: Experts gathered on Thursday to discuss the important role of the media in wildlife conservation and climate change awareness. They emphasized that journalists can help change attitudes and promote positive actions.

During a workshop on responsible reporting, Divisional Forest Officer Sumit Kumar Kar highlighted the need for balanced reporting. He stated that while it’s essential to cover the realities on the ground, the media should also focus on the positive contributions people can make to wildlife conservation. He pointed out that improper use of natural resources can harm the environment, especially in the context of climate change.

Wildlife expert Ranjit Patnaik, who leads the Sneha project, gave a detailed talk on human-elephant conflicts. He discussed ways to address these conflicts and explained how to report on the social lives of elephants across different stages of their lives.

Prof. Anand Pradhan, regional director of the Indian Institute of Mass Communication (IIMC), urged journalists to go beyond daily news. He encouraged them to tell special stories that raise awareness about wildlife and inspire better air quality measures in the district.

The workshop allowed IFS probationer U. Subudhi and several journalists to share their experiences and challenges in wildlife protection. They offered suggestions for improving conservation efforts.

Overall, the discussions highlighted how vital the media’s role is in fostering a more environmentally aware community.

Source link

climate change,media